WHAT WE DO
Office of Worship
WORSHIP
Office of Worship
The Office of Worship 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 diocese. 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. This office regards its service to the liturgy as a privilege and challenge that requires both prayer and continual formation, recognizing that liturgy is first and foremost the prayer of Christ.
The Office of Worship includes the Catechumenate (RCIA) and assists those who wish to be in full communion with the Church, as well as those who minister to them.
Worship Updates & Resources
Important Information for Families of Parishes Regarding “Communion Services”
Bishop Fisher has issued new guidelines for “Communion Services” (more formally known as Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest) in the context of the Road to Renewal. Please review the memo and the rites and contact the Office of Worship with any questions.
- Memo to Families of Parishes (August 7, 2023)
- Rite for Sunday Celebrations in the Absence of a Priest (Revised August 2023)
Revised Order of Penance (2023)
A new Order of Penance has been published with changes to the formula of absolution and other minor liturgical adjustments.
The new Order may be used as of Ash Wednesday, February 22, 2023 and must be used as of the Second Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday), April 16, 2023.
Parishes may wish to publish the following as bulletin inserts and/or make them available near Reconciliation chapels as guides for penitents:
- The Revised Order of Penance (2023)
A guide for the confessor and penitent to know how best to celebrate the new Order. - Pastoral Implications and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Suggested as a bulletin insert or other similar resource to educate parishioners regarding the changes to the Order of Penance.
Annual and Seasonal Reminders
- Precepts for Celebrating the Liturgical Calendar (Updated for 2022-2023)
- Letter from Bishop Mike regarding scheduling of Christmas Vigil Masses (2022)
- Diocese of Buffalo Lenten Reminders (2023)
The Passing of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI
- Novena in Memory of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI (begins January 5, 2023)
- Liturgical Directives for Celebrating the Life of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI (1927-2022)
RCIA: A New Vision
The RCIA will soon become the OCIA. Opportunities for formation and how to implement this in your parish will be coming soon! For now, continue to check http://www.buffalodiocese.org/catechumenate for current information regarding the Rite of Election and the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation as Adults (or Children over the age of reason).
Minister of Holy Communion Formation
Liturgical Calendar
The Liturgical year runs from the First Sunday of Advent through the Solemnity of Christ the King.
Buffalo Diocesan Liturgical Commission
Wedding Music Guidelines
Guidelines, questions and resources regarding music for Catholic weddings.
COVID Guidelines
Guidelines, questions, and resources regarding covid-19 and the catholic church
Contact the Office of Worship
Contact us with questions or concerns:
Phone: 716.847.5545
Address: 795 Main St. Buffalo, NY 14203
Catholic Directory
A complete guide for the offices and organizations within the Diocese of Buffalo
