As the newly formed archdiocesan office for worship begins operation, Monsignor Robert Jaskot, director, is focused on listening to the needs of priests, liturgical ministers and parishioners. He is also raising awareness about pending liturgical developments.
Based at St. Mary’s Seminary and University in Roland Park, Monsignor Jaskot said one of his major focuses is preparing for the promulgation of the new English translation of the Roman Missal, the book of prayers used at Mass.
Monsignor Jaskot has already fielded calls about how the translation might impact the liturgy. He has also presented a workshop on the translation.
Bishop Arthur J. Serratelli of Paterson, N.J., chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Divine Worship, announced in last fall’s meeting of the U.S. bishops that use of the new missal is not expected before Advent of 2012.
“Our goal is to get out into the parishes and set a context for the background of the translation so it can be an opportunity for working to enhance our celebration of the Eucharist,” Monsignor Jaskot said. “We want to study not just the translation itself, but the great depth and mystery that lies behind the translation – that lies at the heart of the Eucharist.”
Changes in the liturgy can be challenging, Monsignor Jaskot said, especially when people are accustomed to one form of worship.
“The intent of the translation is to enhance the celebration,” he said.
Monsignor Jaskot is also working on reviewing and revising the sacramental guidelines for the archdiocese in conjunction with the revision of the Archdiocesan Handbook that outlines guidelines for archdiocesan operations.
Upcoming events:
Wednesday evening listening sessions
These evenings are intended to provide opportunities for liturgy committee members and liturgical ministers to share needs and hopes for the office for worship. Each session will begin by reviewing the survey of liturgy committees completed by Mary Ellen Fise as part of her work with the Ecumenical Institute at St. Mary’s Seminary and University. Participants will be able to share their needs. Sessions will be held Oct 7, 7:30 p.m. (7 p.m. Mass) – Our Lady of Good Counsel in Baltimore; Oct. 21, 7 p.m. – St. Joseph, Fullerton; Oct. 28, 7 p.m. – St. Joseph, Midland; Nov. 4, 7 p.m. – St. Peter, Libertytown; Nov. 11, 7 p.m. – St. John the Evangelist, Severna Park.
Priests on the Translation of the Roman Missal
Father Richard Hilgartner, associate director of the Secretariat of Divine Worship for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, will give an update to priests on the progress of the English translation of the Roman Missal and offer some practical insights into preparing for the changes that will result. This is the first formal step in the archdiocesan preparation for the promulgation of the new translation. The afternoon session, set for Nov. 3 from 1 to 4 p.m. at St. John in Westminster, is limited to priests. Future workshops and other sessions will be offered to all.
To Serve the Body of Christ – A Workshop for Liturgical Ministers
A daylong workshop from 9 a.m. to3 p.m. will be held Nov. 14 at the Church of the Resurrection in Ellicott City for liturgical ministers. The event will present some spiritual and theological foundations as well as practical insights for liturgical ministers to enhance their service as musicians, greeters, ushers, lectors, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion or deacons. Father J. Glenn Murray, noted liturgist and speaker, will give the keynote address – focusing on the call to service that roots liturgical ministry. Breakout sessions will separate according to liturgical function and provide practical helps and guidance.
E-mail worship@archbalt.org or visit www.archbalt.org/liturgy for more information.