Author: Michael C. Vincent

Publisher:

Published: 2006

Total Pages: 108

ISBN-13:

The purposes of this thesis project are to explore the history of the role of the Master of Ceremonies within the Catholic Tradition of the Latin Rite, to propose a new functioning ministry within the Local Church, and to address the changing landscape of the Catholic parishes. Evidence of the faithful assisting during the liturgy is found in liturgical documents as early as 710 in the Roman Ordinals as well as suggestions from scripture (Acts 6:1-6) and letters from early Popes. In light of the long history of this role, and, in particular, the role of the Caerimoniarius in the Sacred Liturgy, specific activities are set forth that could be the responsibility of a Master of Ceremonies serving an individual parish. This project is meant to be an informative, practical guide for men or women who may wish to assist with or need to perform this special ministry within the Church. Churches today are experiencing changes that enhance the need for a designated and trained person to serve as Master of Ceremonies, not only for Episcopal events but on the local and specific parish level as well. As parishes are linked, consolidated, merged, or closed, the size of these hybrid congregations typically increases. In such instances, a Master of Ceremonies could give direction and consistency to parish liturgical celebrations, overseeing all aspects of them. With parishes being combined and new and larger churches being built, there is an increased need for someone, namely a Master of Ceremonies, to coordinate the celebrationss and individuals involved. A Master of Ceremonies can provide not only continuity from one church to the next, but continuity between priests and liturgical ministers within the same parish. This person would, by his or her bearing and purpose, command the respect needed to coordinate a particular event of all the other ministerial positions. This individual would be familiar with the liturgical directives of the Latin Rite Ceremonies of the Church, the Ceremonial of Bishops, and the Roman Pontifical. He or she would take charge as an authorized host in the name of the Church. Trained to act as a Master of Ceremonies, he or she would have studied the details and nuances of the special liturgical event so as to not only understand this role, but to be able to coordinate, facilitate, and lead the ceremonies as the directives and rites have been established. Thereby providing the faithful with consistent, good and spiritually uplifting worship through the detailing and execution of all celebrated Roman Catholic "Rites and Rituals."