Paulist Father John E. Hurley, executive director of the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s Department of Evangelization, announced the appointment of Catherine Combier-Donovan as the new director of the Office for Worship.
Combier-Donovan has held the same position in the Diocese of Richmond since 2006 and has over 10 years of liturgical experience, including parish positions in North and South Carolina and Virginia.
She will start her new position at the archdiocese’s Baltimore City headquarters Sept. 7.
“In the interview process, Catherine captivated a diverse group of archdiocesan leaders and left us wanting more,” Father Hurley said. “Now we will have that opportunity along with our pastoral leaders throughout the archdiocese.”
Combier-Donovan succeeds Monsignor Robert J. Jaskot and will be responsible for working with the parishes to ensure vibrancy and consistency in the liturgy and will work closely with parish leaders during the upcoming changes in the Roman Missal.
“I come with a profound passion for liturgy as the expression of who we are as Catholic Christians,” Combier-Donovan said, “and with great enthusiasm to learn about the parishes of the archdiocese and the history, customs, and traditions of the communities that form them. I have much to share and to discover, and can hardly wait to begin the joy of praising God with the people of Baltimore!”
Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien said, “She comes with great credentials in the field of liturgy and will be a valuable resource for our parishes. We are fortunate to have her. The work of evangelization in the archdiocese has been enriched.”
Possessing a Master’s degree in Liturgical Studies from St. John’s University School of Theology-Seminary in Collegeville, MN, and a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics from Georgetown University, Combier-Donovan is bilingual in French and English and proficient in Spanish.
Georgina Vaca, coordinator of the archdiocese’s Office of Hispanic Young Adult and Youth Ministry, praised Combier-Donovan..
“She has the heart to truly assist us in our call to reach all people, especially at the Eucharistic table,” Vaca said.