Divine Worship

About Us

Revised Order of Penance — English Translation

In 2021, the bishops of the United States approved a revised English translation of the Order of Penance, and in April 2022 the Congregation for Divine Worship and Discipline of the Sacraments granted the recognitio of the text. First use of the revised Order of Penance may be on and after February 22, 2023 (Ash Wednesday). Mandatory use of the revised Order of Penance is on April 16, 2023 (Second Sunday of Easter/Divine Mercy Sunday). After this date, “no other translation of the rite may be used.” See an overview of the changes and information about purchasing the new ritual text, which will be available for shipping to parishes on January 25.


Our Mission

The Office for Divine Worship works with Archbishop Cupich to implement the vision of the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy and all subsequent norms issued for Catholic worship and helps parishes most accurately encounter Christ and receive nourishment through prayer and worship. Ultimately, the office operates to be a resource for parishes, deaneries and vicariates in all liturgical, ritual and observance matters. 

What We Do

The Office of Divine Worship works with other DPVM teams to ensure consistent assistance, guidance and training for parish liturgical ministers and liturgical leadership. We provide the direction and assistance in building strong and vibrant parish worship steeped in ritual and ceremony. Our team coordinates Archdiocesan liturgies and collaborates closely with the Liturgy Training Publications (LTP) to provide education and formation of the liturgical ministers and other pastoral leaders.

Current office programs include but are not limited to:

  • Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)
  • Ministry of Liturgical Music
  • Liturgical Programs in Spanish
  • Provide Resources for Training of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion at Mass
  • Mandation of all EMHCs
  • Identify and list Trainings for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to the Sick (Ministers of Care)
  • Mandation of all EMHC to the Sick

The Staff of the Office for Divine Worship

Director

D. Todd Williamson
312.534.8008
[email protected]

Senior Coordinator for Liturgy and Music

Wendy Barton Silhavy
312.534.8011
[email protected]

Liturgical Resource Coordinator

Maria del Carmen Arroyo
312.534.8012
[email protected]