Office Of Worship

“…the Church announces the good tidings of salvation to those who do not believe, so that all men may know the true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, and may be converted from their ways, doing penance [24]. To believers also the Church must ever preach faith and penance, she must prepare them for the sacraments, teach them to observe all that Christ has commanded [25], and invite them to all the works of charity, piety, and the apostolate. For all these works make it clear that Christ's faithful, though not of this world, are to be the light of the world and to glorify the Father before men.

“…the liturgy is the summit toward which the activity of the Church is directed; at the same time it is the font from which all her power flows. For the aim and object of apostolic works is that all who are made sons of God by faith and baptism should come together to praise God in the midst of His Church, to take part in the sacrifice, and to eat the Lord's supper.”

Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy
Sacrosanctum Concilium
Solemnly Promulgated by
His Holiness Pope Paul VI on December 4, 1963

The Office of Worship of the Archdiocese of Washington, under the guidance of the principal liturgist, Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl, and the leadership of the Director, Rev. Mark D. Knestout, seeks to be a resource for parishes and ministers in the planning of liturgical celebrations and ceremonies. It is the responsibility of this office to oversee the liturgical norms and policies of the archdiocese. In addition it assists parishes with the formation of its members in various ministries such as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, lectors and music, as well as providing information in other areas of liturgy.

It is our hope that the information found on this website will be useful and helpful as you fulfill your own ministry. Please feel free to contact our office if we can be of assistance.