The Office of Liturgical Celebrations of the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, as mentioned in the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, is called to contribute to ensure that each member of the faithful can approach and express, in their own life, the Mystery of Christ the Lord, who Died and Rose again.
The Office of Liturgical Celebrations is responsible for preparing the liturgical celebrations and the moments of prayer for the Chapter and for those hosted by the Basilica. Moreover, it is responsible for the Basilica’s ordinary liturgical life.
The aim of the Office is to ensure that acts of worship take place in accordance with the existing norms and with the appropriate decorum, so that the faithful may participate in liturgical life, “fully aware of what they are doing, actively engaged in the rite and enriched by its effects”. (SC 11).
The salvific work proclaimed by the Apostles is fulfilled in the liturgy, where it becomes “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” (SC 10).
An experienced and competent member of the clergy is in charge of this office. He is assisted by priests and lay people who help him fulfil the required tasks.
e-mail: liturgico.smm@basilica.va