Prayer & Worship

BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR FEBRUARY

2012-01-31T08:42:00.000-06:00

VATICAN CITY, 31 JAN 2012 (VIS) - Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for February is: "That all peoples may have access to water and other resources needed for daily life".

His mission intention is: "That the Lord may sustain the efforts of health workers assisting the sick and elderly in the world's poorest regions".

BXVI-PRAYER INTENTIONS/ VIS 20120131(70)

Easter Vigil Start Time 2012

2011-12-02T09:19:00.002-06:00

The entire celebration of the Easter Vigil takes place at night. It should not begin before nightfall; it should end before daybreak on Sunday". This rule is to be taken according to its strictest sense. Reprehensible are those abuses and practices which have crept in in many places in violation of this ruling, whereby the Easter Vigil is celebrated at the time of day that it is customary to celebrate anticipated Sunday Masses.

Therefore, the Easter Vigil may not start until 8 PM, at the earliest.

Hi. I'm Tom, and I'm Tom II

2011-10-13T23:48:00.001-05:00

New Roman Missal for Middle School Youth - Word for Word by Life Teen from Life Teen on Vimeo.

We Have Our Work Cut Out For Us

2011-09-26T10:21:00.002-05:00

Survey: Most Catholics unaware of Mass revisions

While the Church still has time to prepare and make Catholics more aware of the coming changes, the current answer to the question of “who knows?” is “not many.”

How to Dispose of Old Copies of the Sacramentary

2011-09-06T11:18:00.000-05:00

How to Dispose of Old Copies of the Sacramentary

The Secretariat of Divine Worship has received a number of timely inquiries regarding the disposition of copies of the current Sacramentary once the new Roman Missal, Third Edition has been implemented.

There is relatively little written about exactly what to do with liturgical books which have been replaced by updated or revised editions, but some related writings, as well as some common sense, can provide some context. The Book of Blessings, no. 1343, indicates that the Sacramentary, the Lectionary, and other liturgical books are counted among those articles used in the Sacred Liturgy, which ought to be blessed using the rite provided for that purpose, the Order for the Blessing of Articles for Liturgical Use (nos. 1341-1359). The Latin De Benedictionibus, editio typica, however, does not explicitly mention the Missale among the articles that are properly blessed.

Whether or not the Sacramentary has been blessed by an official rite, it is appropriate to treat it with care as it has been admitted into liturgical use. Its disposal should be handled with respect. The Secretariat recommends burying the Sacramentary in an appropriate location on church grounds, or perhaps in a parish cemetery if there is one. Some have even suggested following a custom used in various Eastern Churches whereby liturgical books or Bibles are placed in the coffin of the deceased as a sign of devotion and love for the Liturgy. In lieu of burying old liturgical books, they could be burned, and the ashes placed in the ground in an appropriate location on church grounds. It is advisable to retain a copy of the Sacramentary for parish archives or liturgical libraries.

Looking ahead to the reception of the Roman Missal, Third Edition, the above-mentioned blessing from the Book of Blessings could be used to bless copies of the Missal before their first use on the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2011. The blessing could take place during a Mass on the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King, at the last weekday Mass prior to the First Sunday of Advent, or outside Mass at a separate gathering of liturgical ministers or other parish leaders.

Many parishes will also replace hymnals and other participation aids (such as hand missals) in light of updated editions corresponding to the new Roman Missal. While the Blessing of Articles for Liturgical Use also mentions hymnals, it might be difficult to appropriately dispose of a large number of copies of such books. After setting aside an appropriate number of copies for archives and libraries, other copies could be stored for use by prayer or study groups in the parish, offered to parishioners for their own private devotional use, or donated to other small communities that could effectively make use of them. Due to copyright agreements, annual hymnals and participation aids should be discarded after their prescribed period of use and cannot be retained for other uses in parishes.

Roman Missal-homiletic and catechetical points

2011-08-30T19:12:00.005-05:00

Greetings all...

Click below for an excellent resource of homiletic and catechetical points to introduce the RMIII to your people this fall.

http://dsj.org/being-catholic/worship/suggested-schedule-and-outline-of-homiletic-and-catechetical-points-for-the-r

On Our Lips and Always In Our Heart

2011-06-29T07:57:00.003-05:00

The New Translation - How will the new settings sound on the lips and hearts of God’s holy people? Come find out! ALMA’s latest offering “On Our Lips and Always In Our Hearts” seeks to expand the discussion to the people that will sing the new settings the most - the people of God. Invite your worship committees, choir members, cantors and parishioners with a particular love of music to join all of us and sing new Mass settings and share with their discoveries about this new music.

This workshop is designed for worship committee members, choir members, cantors and parish musicians. To register click on this link. Registration deadline is Monday, July 25, 2011.

USCCB President Authorizes Gradual Introduction of Musical Settings of New Roman Missal Starting In September

2011-06-17T16:12:00.003-05:00

BELLEVUE, Washington—Archbishop Gregory Aymond of New Orleans, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Divine Worship, announced that diocesan bishops may permit the gradual introduction of the musical settings of the people’s parts of the Mass from the new Roman Missal in September. Primarily this affects the the Gloria, the Holy, Holy, Holy and the Memorial Acclamations.

This variation to the implementation of the Roman Missal, Third Edition, set to take place all at once on November 27, was authorized by USCCB president, Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York, and adopted by the committee to allow parish communities to learn the various parts of the new translation “in a timely fashion and an even pace.”

The Committee on Divine Worship made the decision in response to requests from several bishops, echoed by the National Advisory Council. Some suggested that the various acclamations could be more effectively introduced throughout the fall, so that when the full Missal is implemented on the First Sunday of Advent, the congregation will have already become familiar with the prayers that are sung.

“I ask you to encourage this as a means of preparing our people and helping them embrace the new translation,” Archbishop Gregory told the bishops. The announcement took place June 16, during the U.S. bishops Spring Assembly near Seattle.

# # # #

Editor's Note: It should be noted that it is up to each individual Bishop to grant permission to begin the gradual implementation of the sung parts of the Mass. We are currently awaiting Archbishop Listecki's decision. As soon as we are able, we will communicate it through this blog and emails from the Office of Worship.

BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR APRIL

2011-03-31T09:39:00.002-05:00

VATICAN CITY, 31 MAR 2011 (VIS) - Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for April is: "That through its compelling preaching of the Gospel, the Church may give young people new reasons for life and hope".

His mission intention is: "That by proclamation of the Gospel and the witness of their lives, missionaries may bring Christ to those who do not yet know Him".

BXVI-PRAYER INTENTIONS/VIS 20110331 (70)

Archbishop Listecki on the RMIII

2011-03-12T09:30:00.003-06:00

On Friday Feb. 25, the Cousins Center was teeming with representatives from every part of our archdiocese. As I approached the center, the roadway was filled with cars. The parking lot spilled over on to South Lake Drive. One could tell just from the sheer number of cars that something significant was taking place.

Click here for the full story.

BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR MARCH

2011-03-02T15:04:00.000-06:00

VATICAN CITY, 1 MAR 2011 (VIS) - Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for March is: "That the nations of Latin America may walk in fidelity to the Gospel and progress in justice and peace".

His mission intention is: "That the Holy Spirit may give light and strength to those in many regions of the world who are persecuted and discriminated against because of the Gospel".
BXVI-PRAYER INTENTIONS/ VIS 20110301 (80)

New Saints in the 3rd Roman Missal

2011-01-20T06:03:00.004-06:00

New saints and observances in the third edition of the Roman Missal

January 3 – Most Holy Name of Jesus -- This is part of the Church’s celebration of Christmas, recognizing that God “bestowed on [Jesus] the name that is above every name” (Phil 2:9).
February 8 – St. Josephine Bakhita, virgin – Born in Darfur, Josephine survived kidnapping and slavery to become a nun who embraced and lived hope as a redeemed child of God.
April 23 – St. Adalbert, bishop and martyr – Martyred near the end of the first millennium, Adalbert was a missionary in the countries of central Europe, striving to bring unity to God’s people.
April 28 – St. Louis Mary de Montfort, priest – This French priest is best known for his devotion to Mary, encouraging the faithful to approach Jesus through his mother.
May 13 – Our Lady of Fatima – The Virgin Mary appeared to three children in the Portuguese town of Fatima in 1917. During these apparitions, she encouraged penance and praying the rosary.
May 21 – Sts. Christopher Magallanes, priest and martyr, & Companions, martyrs – Martyred in 1927, this Mexican priest was noted for his care of the native peoples of Mexico and for his work to support vocations to the priesthood.
May 22 – St. Rita of Cascia, religious – A wife, mother, widow, and nun, Saint Rita was known for her patience and humility in spite on many hardships. Conforming herself to the crucified Christ, she bore a wound on her forehead similar to one inflicted by a crown of thorns.
July 9 – Sts. Augustine Zhao Rong, priest and martyr, & Companions, martyrs –Canonized with 119 other Chinese martyrs, Augustine began his career as a soldier. Inspired by the martyrs, he was baptized and eventually became a priest and martyr himself.
July 20 – St. Apollinaris, bishop and martyr – Martyred in the second century, Apollinarius was the Bishop of Ravenna in Italy. He was known as a great preacher and miracle worker.
July 24 – St. Sharbel Makhluf, priest – A Maronite priest in Lebanon, Saint Sharbel spent much of his life as a hermit in the desert, living of life of extreme penance.
August 2 – St. Peter Julian Eymard, priest – Founder of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament, Saint Peter devoted his life to promoting First Communions and devotion to the Eucharist as the sacrament of Christ’s love.
August 9 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross, virgin and martyr – Born of Jewish parents as Edith Stein, she received academic renown as a philosopher. After her conversion to Catholicism, she became a Carmelite nun. She died in Auschwitz in 1942.
September 12 – Most Holy Name of Mary – After beginning in Spain in 1513, this celebration became a universal feast in the seventeenth century. A companion to the Memorial of The Most Holy Name of Jesus, it follows the Feast of the Nativity of Mary.
September 23 – St. Pio of Pietrelcina, priest – Padre Pio was known throughout Italy and the world for his patient hearing of confessions and for his spiritual guidance. In poor health for much of his life, he conformed his sufferings to those of Christ.
September 28 – Sts. Lawrence Ruiz & Companions, martyrs – Saint Lawrence and his companions spread the Gospel in the Philippines, Taiwan, and Japan. Saint Lawrence was born in Manila and was a husband and father,
November 24 – Sts. Andrew Dũng-Lạc, priest and martyr, & Companions, martyrs – Saint Andrew and his 107 companions, both priests and laity, were martyred in Vietnam in the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries. Through their preaching, lives of faith, and witness unto death, they strengthened the Church in Vietnam.
November 25 – St. Catherine of Alexandria, virgin and martyr – Martyred in the early part of the fourth century, Catherine was known for her intelligence, her deep faith, and the power of her intercession.

Mystical Body, Mystical Voice

2011-01-18T20:59:00.001-06:00

February 2011

• Archdiocesan Day for “Mystical Body, Mystical Voice”

Feb. 25, 9am - 5pm

- “Mystical Body, Mystical Voice” is a high level theological

review of liturgical and sacramental theology. It is a program

of catechesis and formation developed by the Liturgical Institute

of the University of St. Mary of the Lake. The priests, deacons

and parish leaders will review the purpose and efficacy of the

liturgy through a review of the Church’s teaching, employing

the conciliar document “Sacrosanctum Concilium,” and other

Roman documents that led up to Vatican II. Attending this full

day, or two half-day conference, will provide the parish leaders

a thorough review/grounding in sound theology. Attendance

will assist them to lead their parish in the coming months

through formation and catechesis for the 3rd Edition of the

Roman Missal.

BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR JANUARY 2011

2010-12-30T07:39:00.003-06:00

VATICAN CITY, 30 DEC 2010 (VIS) - Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for January 2011 is: "That young people may learn to use modern means of social communication for their personal growth and to better prepare themselves to serve society".

His mission intention is: "That every believer in Christ may be conscious that unity among all Christians is a condition for more effective proclamation of the Gospel".

BXVI-PRAYER INTENTIONS/ VIS 20101230

Roman Missal - Mystical Body, Mystical Voice

2010-12-06T13:48:00.001-06:00

Mystical Body, Mystical Voice is a one-day workshop with a target audience of clergy and church professionals (parish DRE, DYM, Principal, Dir. of Liturgy & Music, Deacons & Pastoral Associates) who have the responsibility of forming parishioners for Mass celebrated with the English language version of the Missale Romanum. It gives tools to these professionals to teach others about the liturgy and the words we say at Mass.

Mystical Body, Mystical Voice not only informs parish leaders about the whats and whys of the upcoming translation of the revised Missal, but helps them understand the beauty of what it offers for the enrichment of their knowledge and fruitful liturgical participation as members of the Mystical Body of Christ who hear and speak Christ's Mystical Voice.

Registration

Rite of Election Registration

2010-11-17T08:14:00.008-06:00

November 15, 2010
Albert the Great

Greetings from the Office for Worship,

The Season of Advent is quickly approaching and we wanted to get to you the sign up information for the Rite of Election or http://www.archmil.org/News/2010RiteofElectDates.htm to be celebrated 13, 20 & 27 March, 2011. The link below will take you to a page on the Archdiocesan web site where you may download:

1. Archbishop’s welcome letter or
(http://www.archmil.org/ArchMil/News/WSHP/RiteElectAdmInvit-2011-mch.pdf).

1. Instruction and sign up information pages or (http://www.archmil.org/offices/worship/offNav/RiteofElect.htm).

This year registration for the Rite(s) of Election is web based only.

Please know that we will make every attempt to give to you the day and time of your first request. However, make a second and third choice. Your reservation will be ranked by the time and day we receive your request.

Also, please find the link to the Office of Worship blog or http://archmiloremus.blogspot.com/. The Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission directed that we communicate important liturgical information and answers to questions via a blog. We are hopeful that it will be an informative way to stay connected.

In the blog you will find RCIA resources and an article for the start time for the Easter Vigil.

The Retreat for Elect will be held on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the Cousins Center. Mark your calendars! Registration information will be available soon!

PAX

Dean Daniels
Office for Worship
Archdiocese of Milwaukee

BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR NOVEMBER

2010-10-29T14:26:00.000-05:00

VATICAN CITY, 29 OCT 2010 (VIS) - Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for November is: "That victims of drugs or of other dependence may, thanks to the support of the Christian community, find in the power of our saving God strength for a radical life-change".

His mission intention is: "That the Churches of Latin America may move ahead with the continent-wide mission proposed by their bishops, making it part of the universal missionary task of the People of God".
VIS 20101029

Wedding Consultation

2010-10-19T09:45:00.001-05:00

January 1-2 2011 Theotokos and Epiphany

2010-10-15T14:39:00.004-05:00

Mary, Mother of God and Epiphany (January 1-2 2011)

Saturday, 1 January 2011 marks the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God, which in 2011 is not a holy day of obligation because it falls on a Saturday. The Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord follows on Sunday 2 January.

Just as the Mother of God points the way and leads us to her Son, her Solemnity gives way to the Epiphany. Therefore, Mass on the evening of 1 January is the Vigil of the Epiphany, and Evening Prayer I of the Epiphany is prayed.

Milwaukee Roman Missal Implementation Plan

2010-09-29T18:44:00.004-05:00

Yesterday at the Fall Priests’ Day, a twelve month calendar for catechesis and formation on the Revised Roman Missal was previewed. It is a plan that begins this December and continues until December of 2011 with the implementation of the revised translation of the Roman Missal 3rd Edition.

This coming year could be a once in a generation opportunity to teach our people about the liturgy in a very intentional way. By the time we all arrive at the First Sunday in Advent 2011, the faithful in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee could have a renewed appreciation of what happens when we celebrate the Eucharist.

This fall, each parish will receive two resources from the Archdiocese of Milwaukee. They are:

Parish Guide to Implementing the Roman Missal 3rd Edition – USCCB Publishing
Workshop Kit for Parish Leaders – FDLC Publishing

In addition to these two electronic and published resources, the Archdiocese will host an all day workshop for Priests, Deacons and Parish Leaders entitled “Mystical Body, Mystical Voice” produced by the Liturgical Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein, Il. This workshop on 25 February will be an in-depth review on the Church’s sacramental and liturgical theology.

The workshop kit from the FDLC is a complete parish manual for catechesis and formation for the 3rd Edition of the Roman Missal. Each kit contains:

a planning calendar to accompany the Archdiocesan calendar (web address)
ministry specific suggestions
a to-do list
bulletin inserts
homily helps
and a comprehensive bibliography for further reflection
a DVD explaining the principles underlying the translation revisions

Check back to this web page often for updated and further resources as you begin the catechesis and formation for the 3rd Edition of the Roman Missal.

Christ Has Died - Changes You Could Make NOW

2010-09-23T09:21:00.005-05:00

We have had many inquiries about implementing the Revised Translation in waves. Our Bishops say no.

However, there is one change that a parish might consider making now. The familiar Memorial Acclamation: Christ Has Died, Christ Has Risen, Christ Will Come Again, has not received approval to be included in the revised translation.

Consider omitting it now. It would be one less change for people to fret about.

See the approved People's Part of the Revised Roman Missal here.

IMPLEMENTATION - NEW ROMAN MISSAL

2010-08-26T09:48:00.001-05:00

U.S. Adaptations to Mass Prayers Also Approved
Parish Education Efforts Urged To Precede Implementation
Resources Available Through USCCB

WASHINGTON—Cardinal Francis George, OMI, Archbishop of Chicago and President of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), has announced that the full text of the English-language translation of the Roman Missal, Third Edition, has been issued for the dioceses of the United States of America.

The text was approved by the Vatican, and the approval was accompanied by a June 23 letter from Cardinal Llovera Antonio Cañizares, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. The Congregation also provided guidelines for publication.

In addition, on July 24, the Vatican gave approval for several adaptations, including additional prayers for the Penitential Act at Mass and the Renewal of Baptismal Promises on Easter Sunday. Also approved are texts of prayers for feasts specific to the United States such as Thanksgiving, Independence Day and the observances of feasts for saints such as Damien of Molokai, Katharine Drexel, and Elizabeth Ann Seton. The Vatican also approved the Mass for Giving Thanks to God for the Gift of Human Life, which can be celebrated on January 22.

Cardinal George announced receipt of the documents in an August 20 letter to the U.S. Bishops and issued a decree of proclamation that states that “The use of the third edition of the Roman Missal enters into use in the dioceses of the United States of America as of the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2011. From that date forward, no other edition of the Roman Missal may be used in the dioceses of the United States of America.”

The date of implementation was chosen to allow publishers time to prepare texts and parishes and dioceses to educate parishioners.

“We can now move forward and continue with our important catechetical efforts as we prepare the text for publication,” Cardinal George said.

In the coming weeks, staff of the bishops’ Secretariat of Divine Worship will prepare the text for publication and collaborate with the staff of the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL), which will assist Bishops’ Conferences in bringing the text to publication. In particular, ICEL has been preparing the chant settings of the texts of the Missal for use in the celebration of the Mass. Once all necessary elements have been incorporated into the text and the preliminary layout is complete, the final text will go to the publishers to produce the ritual text, catechetical resources and participation aids for use in the Liturgy.

Receipt of the text marks the start of proximate preparation for Roman Missal implementation. Before first use of the new text in Advent 2011, pastors are urged to use resources available to prepare parishioners. Some already have been in use; others are being released now. They include the Parish Guide for the Implementation of the Roman Missal, Third Edition, and Become One Body, One Spirit in Christ, a multi-media DVD resource produced by ICEL in collaboration with English-language Conferences of Bishops. Both will be available from the USCCB. Information on resources can be found at www.usccb.org/romanmissal

Bishop Arthur Serratelli of Paterson, New Jersey, Chair of the Bishops’ Committee on Divine Worship, voiced gratitude for the approval.

“I am happy that after years of preparation, we now have a text that, when introduced late next year, will enable the ongoing renewal of the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy in our parishes,” he said. Msgr. Anthony Sherman, Director of the Secretariat for Divine Worship of the USCCB noted, “A great effort to produce the new Roman Missal for the United States, along with the other necessary resources, has begun. Even as that work is underway a full–scale catechesis about the Liturgy and the new Roman Missal should be taking place in parishes, so that when the time comes, everyone will be ready.”

Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship -7-Session Webinar

2010-08-16T20:12:00.002-05:00

Why We Sing and What We Sing
The People Who Make Music
Choosing Music for the Liturgy
Inculturation and Liturgical Music
Chant in Parish Worship
Preparing Music for Sunday Mass
Preparing Music for Sacraments and Other Liturgical Celebrations

All webinars take place at 2:00 pm ET ▪ 1:00 pm CT ▪ 12:00 noon MT ▪ 11:00 am PT

Each one-hour webinar explores a major theme or section of the U.S. bishops’ official guidelines on music in the liturgy, Sing to the Lord. These topics aren’t just chapters in a document, but are important dimensions in the ministry of every pastoral musician and in the life of every worshipping community. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your own ministry!

The highly qualified presenters—recognized and experienced leaders in the field of liturgy and music—will help you to get beneath the surface of Sing to the Lord, and they will offer insights that will make a difference in your ministry.

Choose the session(s) you’re most interested in or sign up for the entire series. Register at the same time for all seven sessions and receive a generous discount of more than forty percent!

Implementing the 3rd Ed. of the Roman Missal

2010-08-16T09:55:00.004-05:00

Two days of intensive study on the Roman Missal with two preeminent scholars: Msgr. Kevin Irwin and Rev. Paul Turner including facilitated discussion, workshops and an evening with the BCDW

Rev. Paul Turner

Msgr. Keven Irwin

Facilitator, Ms. Vicki Klima

October 5-8, 2010
2010 National Meeting of
Diocesan Liturgical Commissions
Alexandria, Louisiana

Easter Vigil Start Time 2011

2010-06-30T09:44:00.007-05:00

Here we are in late June 2010 and I've already had the question about the start time for the Easter Vigil 2011. So, here is the time for sunset for 23 April, 2011: 7:42pm. Therefore, a parish could schedule their Easter Vigil to begin at 8:pm.

Here is the quote from the Circular Letter Concerning the Preparation and Celebration of the Easter Feasts, #78 "The Meaning of the Nocturnal Character of the Easter Vigil".

The entire celebration of the Easter Vigil takes place at night. It should not begin before nightfall; it should end before daybreak on Sunday". This rule is to be taken according to its strictest sense. Reprehensible are those abuses and practices which have crept in in many places in violation of this ruling, whereby the Easter Vigil is celebrated at the time of day that it is customary to celebrate anticipated Sunday Masses.

http://www.sunrisesunset.com/custom_srss_calendar.asp

Mystagogy: A Catholic Approach to Living the Christian Life

2010-06-03T09:37:00.001-05:00

The Vigil is long over, the newly initiated have dried off, a great euphoric (and often exhausted) sigh was heard across the land... So now what? Mystagogical catechesis! But is this just a rarified ancient practice only to be used with the newly baptized and only during the Easter Season? Let's explore the varied ways this catechetical process can be used in various parish ministries, including initiation ministry.

Ron Oakham, O.Carm currently serves as pastor of St. Cyril of Alexandria Parish in Tucson, AZ. Over the years, in addition to serving on Forum institutes as a team member, he has served Forum as an Associate Director of Institutes and as a member of its Board of Directors. He is the author of One at the Table: The Reception of Baptized Christians.

Invitation to Conversation: Building up the RCIA

2010-06-03T09:32:00.002-05:00

Discover ways to attract people to the RCIA.

">Free webinar:

Invitation to Conversation: Building up the RCIA

with Rev. Frank DeSiano, CSP

Tuesday, June 15, 2010, at 3pm EDT

RCIA: Can We Get the Rite Right? Notre Dame Online

2010-06-03T09:30:00.000-05:00

The current Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) was promulgated January 6, 1972 and the use of the Rite was made mandatory in all U.S. Dioceses in September of 1988 . The RCIA is a process through which non-baptized and baptized men and women enter the Catholic Church. It includes four distinct stages of formation: 1.) Evangelization or Pre-catechumenate, 2.) Catechumenate, 3.) Sacramental Celebration and 4.) Mystagogy. For a Rite that has been in place for over a decade there is still much work to be done on its overall implementation. In 2001, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops published the results of a three year study on the implementation of the Rite, Journey to the Fullness of Life. The results of this comprehensive study make it clear that the RCIA is essential for the rich and healthy life of the Church in the United States. It is also clear from the study that the implementation of the Rite can be improved in many ways and that the Rite must continue to be a major priority in the local churches. The course will explore the Rite, using the stages of the Rite as the guide for the course, looking to the various stages of formation and also invite participants to reflect on ways his or her parish implements the Rite. While previous experience working with the RCIA is a benefit in the courses, individuals new to the process and also those wanting to know more about the RCIA should take this course.

Singing the Lord’s Song: Music, Ritual, and the New Roman

2010-05-18T08:55:00.004-05:00

Revised Roman Missal - Recognitio Granted

2010-04-29T11:34:00.003-05:00

ENGLISH TRANSLATION OF ROMAN MISSAL TO BE PUBLISHED SOON

VATICAN CITY, 29 APR 2010 (VIS) - The Pope had lunch yesterday in the Vatican's Casina Pio IV with members and consultors of "Vox Clara", an advisory committee for questions concerning the celebration of the Roman Rite in English.

Following the luncheon the Holy Father, himself speaking English, thanked "Vox Clara" for the work it has done "over the last eight years, assisting and advising the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments in fulfilling its responsibilities with regard to the English translations of liturgical texts. This has been a truly collegial enterprise. Not only are all five continents represented in the membership of the committee, but you have been assiduous in drawing together contributions from bishops' conferences in English-speaking territories all over the world".

"I thank the superiors and officials of the congregation for their daily, painstaking work of overseeing the preparation and translation of texts that proclaim the truth of our redemption in Christ, the Incarnate Word of God", he said.

Benedict XVI went on: "I welcome the news that the English translation of the Roman Missal will soon be ready for publication. ... Through these sacred texts and the actions that accompany them, Christ will be made present and active in the midst of His people".

Going on then to identify a new task, that of "preparing for the reception of the new translation by clergy and lay faithful", the Pope pointed out that "many will find it hard to adjust to unfamiliar texts after nearly forty years of continuous use of the previous translation. The change will need to be introduced with due sensitivity, and the opportunity for catechesis that it presents will need to be firmly grasped. I pray that in this way any risk of confusion or bewilderment will be averted, and the change will serve instead as a springboard for a renewal and a deepening of Eucharistic devotion all over the English-speaking world".

"Soon the fruits of your labours will be made available to English-speaking congregations everywhere", the Holy Father concluded.
AC/ VIS 20100429 (350)

May Crowning

2010-04-22T09:06:00.005-05:00

As May has traditionally been celebrated as a Marian month, your parish might wish to review the Order of Crowning an Image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, published in Rome on 25 March 1981. The approved English translation was released 24 March 1987. The document is now published by Catholic Book Publishing, and is available from their website for $8.95. As always, any liturgical music chosen for the rite should be in keeping with the liturgical season in which the order is celebrated. The order does direct that closing songs may be Marian.
http://www.archmil.org/ArchMil/Resources/May_Crowning_2007.pdf

Justice for Immigrants (JFI)

2010-04-15T18:19:00.002-05:00

Take Action for Our Immigrant Brothers and Sisters!

The Justice for Immigrants (JFI), launched by the US Conference of Catholic Bishops in 2005, was created to promote just and humane immigration reform as a major public policy priority. JFI seeks to educate the Catholic community about immigration issues, and to mobilize Catholics to work for immigration reform.

To learn more about the Justice for Immigrants campaign, or to send an electronic postcard to your members of Congress supporting immigration reform, please visit:

www.justiceforimmigrants.org

Revised Missal: LTP Formation Materials

2010-04-15T08:47:00.002-05:00

At this Web site, www.RevisedRomanMissal.org, Liturgy Training Publications will provide information regarding the status of the Roman Missal, catechetical resources for ongoing liturgical formation, free products, pastoral blogs, news reports, and accounts from liturgists, priests, and pastoral associates across the country outlining their pastoral plan for catechesis and implementation.

Revised Missal:Q & A About Changes to the Mass

2010-04-13T07:59:00.007-05:00

Questions and Answers About Changes to the Mass

A simple presentation of the changes in the language we use at Mass that will come about with the new edition of the Roman Missal.

Title: Questions and Answers About Changes to the Mass
pamphlet
Features: $30 per hundred
Quantity: 100
Price: $30.00

Revised Missal: 3rd Edition - Workshop Materials

2010-04-13T07:54:00.006-05:00

Workshop Kit For Parish/Liturgical Leaders

VIDEO presentation of the new translation by Bishop Arthur Serratelli, chairman of the Bishops' Committee on Divine Worship

POWERPOINT presentation.

LEADER SCRIPT and participation handouts, on the new translation of the Roman Missal, within the context of the liturgical reform of Vatican II.

Title: Workshop Kit For Parish/Liturgical Leaders
kit
Features: DVD and CD-ROM set
Price: $125.00

Good Friday Intercession for Victims of Sexual Abuse

2010-04-01T12:07:00.002-05:00

Diocese of Des Moines Worship Department

Let us pray, dear friends,
for the victims of sexual abuse,
especially for children who were abused;
that God may grant healing and new life
to those whose childhood innocence was violated.

Almighty and eternal God,
be the refuge and guardian
of all who suffer from abuse and violence.
Comfort them and send healing
for their wounds of body, soul and spirit.
Release them from shame,
renew them with your love,
and break the silence that inhibits their wholeness.
Heal the brokenness in all victims of abuse
and revive the spirits of all who lament this sin.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Good Friday Presider?

2010-03-29T07:38:00.004-05:00

On Good Friday, the celebration of the Lord’s Passion is presided over by a priest. Ideally, the service should take place at 3:00pm; however, for pastoral reasons, it may be celebrated at an earlier or later hour. Only at the celebration of the Lord’s Passion is Holy Communion to be received, excepting that being taken to the sick. People should be reminded that Good Friday is a day of fast and abstinence.

Revised Missal: Collegeville Conference on Music, Liturgy, and the Arts

2010-03-15T10:05:00.002-05:00

New Music, New Texts: Preparing for a New Missal

Upcoming Conference: June 21-24, 2010

The Conference will explain the new missal and provide implementation guidelines for all who engage in the art of music and liturgy. Participants will read and sing together the new tests/music under the direction of experts. Sessions will include reasoning and theology of the new Missal with an emphasis on understanding liturgical texts, music and revised ritual acts. Conference session will also cover choral reading, creativity in music, sacred arts and environment, The Saint John’s Bible, faculty forum and applied lessons.

Keynote Presenters: Paul Ford; Fr. Anthony Ruff, OSB; Johan van Parys; Sr. Delores Dufner, OSB; Kim Kasling and Lynn Trapp, Co-directors, clinicians.

Revised Missal: Historical and Theological Reflections

2010-03-08T08:24:00.004-06:00

Historical and Theological Reflections on the New Missal:
Believing and Praying in Times of Change

In this time of consistent liturgical reform, some seek to return to an older, Tridentine tradition which remained unchanged for centuries - or did it? Take a historical look at liturgical change in light of the current reforms to the translation of the Roman Missal.
(1-3 credits) June 7, 8: 1-4:15 p.m.; June 9, 10: 1-4 p.m
Edward Foley, Capuchin

Catholic Theological Union | 5401 South Cornell Ave. | Chicago, Illinois 60615-5698 | 773.324.8000

Catholics and the Seder Meal

2010-02-19T07:10:00.000-06:00

At this time of the Liturgical Year, the Office of Worship receives some questions from concerned parishioners about their parishes schedule of a Seder Meal. They want to know if it is OK for Catholics to celebrate a Seder during the Triduum. In 1988 the USCCB published a short discourse on Guidelines on the Presentation of Jews and Judaism in Catholic Preaching under the title God's Mercy. In it we read...

27. Pope John Paul II's visit to the Chief Rabbi of Rome on Good Friday, 1987, gives a lead for pastoral activities during Holy Week in local churches. Some dioceses and parishes, for example, have begun traditions such as holding a "Service of Reconciliation" with Jews on Palm Sunday, or inviting Holocaust survivors to address their congregations during Lent.

28. It is becoming familiar in many parishes and Catholic homes to participate in a Passover Seder during Holy Week. This practice can have educational and spiritual value. It is wrong, however, to "baptize" the Seder by ending it with New Testament readings about the Last Supper or, worse, turn it into a prologue to the Eucharist. Such mergings distort both traditions. The following advice should prove useful:

When Christians celebrate this sacred feast among themselves, the rites of the haggadah for the seder should be respected in all their integrity. The seder . . . should be celebrated in a dignified manner and with sensitivity to those to whom the seder truly belongs. The primary reason why Christians may celebrate the festival of Passover should be to acknowledge common roots in the history of salvation. Any sense of "restaging" the Last Supper of the Lord Jesus should be avoided .... The rites of the Triduum are the [Church's] annual memorial of the events of Jesus' dying and rising (Bishops' Committee on the Liturgy Newsletter, March 1980, p. 12).

General Intercessions for the Season of Mercy

2010-02-16T14:52:00.002-06:00

You can learn more about the Season of Mercy on the John Paul II Center website: www.johnpaul2center.org.

If you have any questions, the contact person for the Season of Mercy is Randy Nohl, nohlr@archmil.org or 414-758-2216.

Intercessions for Season of Mercy

During this Lenten Season of Mercy in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, may we strive to rediscover and seek the mercy of God, as we personally encounter Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We pray to the Lord.

During this Lenten Season of Mercy in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, may we strive to extend to others what we have received from God: mercy, forgiveness, healing and peace. We pray to the Lord.

May this Lenten Season of Mercy in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee be a time when we come to a deeper appreciation of God’s forgiving love, through the Sacrament of Reconciliation as well as in our communities, families and personal lives. We pray to the Lord.

The Archdiocese of Milwaukee is celebrating this Lent as a “Season of Mercy.” As a way of focusing on the Season of Mercy and uniting the churches in the archdiocese, three general intercessions have been prepared for your use at Sunday Masses throughout Lent. There are three different ones so you can use them on various Sundays during the Season of Mercy. They are not intended to be used all at the same time.

May the Stations of the Cross be prayed during Eucharistic Adoration?

2010-02-10T12:13:00.000-06:00

Eucharistic exposition and benediction are no longer considered devotions, but rather are a part of the Church's official liturgy. Whereas in the past benediction was frequently added on to the end of another service or devotion, this is no longer permitted. Eucharistic exposition and benediction is a complete liturgical service in its own right and is to be celebrated as such.

2010 Easter Vigil can begin at 8:00pm

2010-02-03T17:42:00.002-06:00

2010 Easter Vigil can begin at 8:00pm

The 2009 November Chancery Newsletter
indicated the incorrect start time for the
April 3, 2010 Easter Vigil. The correct
time is 8:00pm (not 8:30pm). We
apologize for the error.

Revised Missal: Web Catechesis for the Implementation

2010-01-23T12:23:00.004-06:00

These videos and transcripts are presented as background catechesis for the implementation of the new translation of the third edition of the Roman Missal.

Msgr. Bruce Harbert is the former Executive Director of ICEL and now continues as a consultant. He thus oversaw the committees working on the translation.
Fr. Anthony Ruff

Fr. Anthony Ruff is Associate Professor of Theology and St. John's School of Theology and Seminary, Collegeville, Minnesota. A musicologist, he has written on sacred music and liturgical reform, and is the founder and director of the National Catholic Youth Choir.

Fr. Paul Turner, S.T.D., is a priest of the diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, and holds a doctorate in sacred theology from Sant' Anselmo in Rome. He is a frequent contributor to both pastoral and academic journals.

Sr. Joyce Ann Zimmerman, C.PP.S. is from Dayton, Ohio where she directs the Institute for Liturgical Ministry. She is the founding editor (1992) and columnist for Liturgical Ministry.

We hope that people in ministry will find the information helpful, and you are also welcome to use them to facilitate discussion by parish worship committees. Most of them are recorded in short segments to facilitate that. Think of them as conference papers coming to wherever you are. More speakers will be added in the future, so return to check in from time to time.

Haiti - Liturgy Resources for this Sunday

2010-01-13T11:10:00.003-06:00

Prayer

God of all creation, as we weep with our family in Haiti, console us.

In this time of crisis, open our eyes to look beyond the disaster

to see Christ in our brothers and sisters in Haiti, as Christ sees us.

Be with us as we stand in solidarity with those living and working in Haiti.

Be with us in our mourning and guide our efforts to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, comfort the grieving and stand for justice.

With your mercy, sustain us at this time as we continue to work for peace and justice.

Amen.

For our Brothers and Sisters in Haiti Affected by the Earthquake

Lord, hear our prayer.

For the Haitian people, that we generously provide them help to them quickly and comfort comes to those who hurt.

Lord, hear our prayer.

For the lost or buried, that they are found and reunited with their loved ones.

Lord, hear our prayers.

For the relief workers, that we provide them the tools they need, and that they have the courage and the strength to respond fully.

Lord, hear our prayers.

For the families in Haiti and in the United States who are waiting to hear from loved one, that good news comes to them.

Lord, hear our prayers.

For those whose who have perished, may their souls rest with you, oh Lord, where they will find eternal love.

Amen.

Installation Information on Archbishop Listecki

2010-01-01T15:25:00.003-06:00

Additional information on Archbishop Listecki (e.g., curriculum vitae, photos, statements) are available here.

Installation Mass Broadcast Live

Installation Mass for Milwaukee Archbishop-designate Listecki to be Broadcast Live on radio and television.

Click here for the online version of the participation aid for Vespers and Mass

Media Info for Archbishop Listecki's Installation

Media information for installation of Archbishop Jerome Listecki.

Regional Celebrations

Six regional celebrations of welcome will take place from Thursday, Jan. 7 through Monday, Feb. 1, at parishes throughout the 10-county archdiocese.

Advent Four- Intercession for Our New Archbishop

2009-12-14T07:35:00.004-06:00

For Archbishop Designate Jerome Lisecki
and the Archdiocese of Milwaukee,
that the grace and peace of God's joy
be upon us this Advent season,
we pray to the Lord...

That the LaCrosee diocese
may have the expectant joy of Mary,
as they wait for the appointment of a new bishop,
we pray to the Lord...

The Archdiocese of Milwaukee
is grateful to Debb Honoré
of the Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission
for this week's intercessions.

Advent Three- Intercession for Our New Archbishop

2009-12-07T13:17:00.003-06:00

That the Church of Southeastern Wisconsin
rejoice during this Advent Season
with Archbishop Designate Jerome
that the Lord is near.
We Pray To The Lord...

That the Church of LaCrosse continue
its Advent joy as they wait
for a new Bishop.
We Pray To The Lord

Remember the Liturgical Pioneers, Pastoral Musicians and Liturgists

2009-12-04T10:08:00.002-06:00

As we mark the 46th anniversary of Sacrosanctum Concilium today, please pause for a moment to remember the Liturgical Pioneers, Pastoral Musicians and Liturgists who have gone before. You are invited to visit the online memorial at: http://www.liturgicalleaders.blogspot.com/

How December 25 Became Christmas

2009-12-03T12:26:00.002-06:00

On December 25, Christians around the world will gather to celebrate Jesus’ birth. Joyful carols, special liturgies, brightly wrapped gifts, festive foods—these all characterize the feast today, at least in the northern hemisphere. But just how did the Christmas festival originate? How did December 25 come to be associated with Jesus’ birthday?

Follow this link for an informative article from Biblical Archaeology Review.

BENEDICT XVI'S PRAYER INTENTIONS FOR DECEMBER

2009-12-02T17:25:00.001-06:00

VATICAN CITY, 1 DEC 2009 (VIS) - Pope Benedict's general prayer intention for December is: "That children may be respected and loved and never be the victims of exploitation in its various forms".

His mission intention is: "That at Christmas the peoples of the earth may recognise in the Word Incarnate the light which illuminates every man, and that the nations may open their doors to Christ, the Saviour of the world".
BXVI-PRAYER INTENTIONS/DECEMBER/... VIS 091201 (80)

Advent Two- Intercession for Our New Archbishop

2009-12-01T08:13:00.003-06:00

That Archbishop Designate Jerome
will be a herald of the good news
to the people of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee,
as proclaimed by John.
Let us pray to the Lord...

For the faithful of the Diocese of LaCrosse
as the wait patiently for a new Shepherd.
Let us pray to the Lord.

Advent One - Intercession for Our New Archbishop

2009-11-23T08:38:00.005-06:00

For Archbishop-Designate Jerome...
May his care for the Archdiocese of Milwaukee
Be marked by vigilant waiting for the Lord.
We pray...

For the Diocese of LaCrosse
As they begin the Season of Advent
In joyful expectation of a new Shepherd.
We pray...

Prayer for A New Archbishop -Christ King Sunday

2009-11-17T18:15:00.002-06:00

That Archbishop Designate Jerome,
newly appointed Archbishop of Milwaukee,
will bear witness to Christ’s kingdom of justice, love and peace
as he prepares to serve the Archdiocese of Milwaukee , we pray…

For the people of the Diocese of La Crosse
as they now wait in patience for a new Shepherd, we pray...

On the Appointment of an New Archbishop

2009-11-14T06:57:00.001-06:00

God our Father,
our shepherd and guide,
look with love on Jerome, your servant,
your appointed pastor of the Church of southeastern Wisconsin.

May his word and example inspire and guide this local Church;
may he, and all those in his care,
come to the joy of everlasting life.

Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God,
for ever and ever.

Amen!!!

Adapted from the Sacramentary page 874

The Eucharistic Prayer and the New Archbishop

2009-11-14T06:54:00.001-06:00

Dean Daniels, Director of the Archdiocesan Office for Worship, provides the following information regarding how to refer to Archbishop-designate Jerome E. Listecki in the Eucharistic Prayer. Dean recommends the following:

For Jerome our Archbishop-Designate,
For William our Diocesan Administrator

Prayer for the New Archbishop - Jerome Edward Listecki

2009-11-14T05:20:00.003-06:00

That Archbishop Designate Most Reverend Jerome Edward Listecki., newly appointed Archbishop of Milwaukee, will bear witness to the justice, love and peace of Christ as he prepares to serve the Archdiocese of Milwaukee , we pray…

Prayer for A New Archbishop -Thirty-Third Sunday

2009-11-09T10:29:00.000-06:00

May we,
just as the disciples did not know
the day or the hour of “the Son of Man coming in the clouds”,
be patient as we await the appointment
of the new Archbishop of Milwaukee, we pray…

The Archdiocese of Milwaukee and the Office for Worship
are grateful to the members of the
Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission
for their service to the Church in Southeastern Wisconsin.
This week's intercession for a new Archbishop
comes from Liturgical Commission, Chair, Scott Eakins.

Reverent Reception of Holy Communion

2009-11-04T09:58:00.005-06:00

How to Receive the Eucharist

In recent weeks, Ordinary and Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist have expressed concern that those receiving Eucharist are unclear as to the norms for receiving. I share with you the following information from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop and the document Norms for the Distribution and Reception of Holy Communion Under Both Kinds in the Dioceses of the United States of America as a gentle reminder.

Reception of the Eucharist as an Act of Faith

As paragraphs 14 and 15 note, the act of Communion is also an act of faith. When the minister says "The body of Christ" or "The blood of Christ," the communicant’s "Amen" is a profession in the presence of the saving Christ, body and blood, soul and divinity, who now gives life to the believer. The communicant makes this act of faith in the total presence of the Lord Jesus Christ when receiving either form of communion (bread or wine).

How to Receive Eucharist

As we approach the Ordinary or Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist we bow our head in reverence of the presence of Christ.

Holy Communion under the form of bread is then offered to the communicant with the words “The Body of Christ.” The communicant may choose whether to receive the Body of Christ in the hand or on the tongue. When receiving in the hand, the communicant should be guided by the words of St. Cyril of Jerusalem: “When you approach, take care not to do so with your hand stretched out and your fingers open or apart, but rather place your left hand as a throne beneath your right, as befits one who is about to receive the King. Then receive him, taking care that nothing is lost.”

The communicant consumes the host immediately and never “grabs” the host from the minister. The communicant allows the minister to place the host in their hand or on their tongue. The host is consumed immediately. It should never be carried away.

Reception by Intinction

As paragraph 50 notes, the communicant, including the extraordinary minister, is never allowed to self-communicate, even by means of intinction (the act by which the host is placed in the precious blood for reception). Communion under either form, bread or wine, must always be given by an ordinary or extraordinary minister of Holy Communion.

Should you have questions regarding the reception of the Eucharist, please do not hesitate to contact Scott Eakins, Director of Liturgy at our Cathedral: scotteakins@stjohncathedral.org.

Prayer for A New Archbishop -Thirty-Second Sunday

2009-11-02T09:56:00.001-06:00

May the one called by the Holy Spirit to serve as Archbishop

be generous in self-giving and kind to those in need

as he leads the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, we pray…

The Archdiocese of Milwaukee and the Office for Worship
are grateful to the members of the
Archdiocesan Liturgical Commission
for their service to the Church in Southeastern Wisconsin.
This week's intercession for a new Archbishop
comes from Liturgical Commission, Chair, Scott Eakins.