Describe why your institution/program was founded. Has your mission evolved overtime?
The Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions (FDLC) was founded in 1969 by the Bishops’ Committee on the Liturgy. It a collaborative effort to provide formation on the liturgical texts which were being promulgated after the Second Vatican Council.
In many ways our mission remains the same. We still provide formation on newly-promulgated liturgical texts and Church documents. We still network among the Offices of Worship and Diocesan Commissions of the country in order to provide liturgical formation and to support the authentic implementation of the Church’s rites.
Who is your main “audience”? Whom do you hope to include in the future?
Our main “audience” are our diocesan members who are serving their Bishops. But by extension and in addition, we are serving the parishes and institutions of the United States. Our free webinars routinely reach thousands. Our free resources (including seasonal preparation aids) and printed publications serve parish leaders throughout the country.
These efforts have also generated a marked increase in “associate members” in recent years. (They now number nearly four hundred.) These include priests, deacons, lay leaders, and academics who are not necessarily tied to a diocesan office or commission.
What initiatives are you focused on at present? If people want to become involved/attend, how would they do so? Whom should they contact?
Currently, we are focused on formation for the revised Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. We are also preparing resources for the revised Liturgy of the Hours, the Anointing of the Sick and Their Pastoral Care, the Order of Christian Funerals, and general formation on ars celebrandi.
Membership information may be found on our website: https://fdlc.org/membership-account/membership-levels/ or people may contact us at our National Office at 202-635-6990.
How are you unique, or well-poised, to contribute to the life of the church?
Our organization is (and always has been) effective since it is connected to the diocesan church. In that regard we can serve our constituents as well as serve the USCCB and their efforts.
The FDLC has always been focused on liturgical formation and assisting parish and diocesan personnel who are responsible for the same.
Anything else you would like readers to know about your work or trending issues?
Trends may come and go. Particular pieties may influence practice. We are committed to carrying out the vision of the Second Vatican Council and the Holy Father’s direction for the life of the Church and its liturgical apostolate.
May God prosper your work!
This interview was conducted by email.
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