Liturgy is the word used for all of the public rituals (religious services) of the Catholic Church. It can refer to the Mass, but also the rituals associated with all of the sacraments, prayer called the Liturgy of the Hours, and other various rites such as Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and blessings from the Book of Blessings. Liturgies follow a set pattern found in the Church’s official liturgical book. The Roman Missal is the liturgical book followed for the Mass.
I find it interesting that the word “liturgy” had a secular beginning. It was used to refer to public works done for the good of the community. Some examples would be contributing to the building of a sewer system or a road, aqueduct repair, outfitting a warship, or donating to the arts, such as poetry contests, festivals, plays or music.
The Greek word was leitourgia from litos meaning “people” and ergos meaning “to do.” It was a work of public service which helped the community. The early Church used that word to refer to public prayer, a work done in service for the people. I like thinking that liturgy is a work done of the people, for the people, and by the people (with apologies to Abraham Lincoln).
Subscribe to Vicki Klima's Liturgy Blog!
Vicki Klima
Vicki, a retired liturgist and parish administrator, is passionate about enriching Catholic worship. She authored
Participation of the Heart to help Catholics engage more deeply in the Mass. With a Master’s in Pastoral Liturgy, she has led workshops, written for liturgical publications, and continues to inspire through speaking, writing, and her love of music and theater.
