Pope Leo Calls for Renewed Liturgical Formation Across Parishes
Pope Leo XIV has urged dioceses and parish communities to strengthen their commitment to liturgical formation, emphasizing the need for well-prepared lectors, thoughtful celebration planning and a renewed appreciation for both the Liturgy of the Hours and expressions of popular piety. Speaking to diocesan liturgical pastoral leaders gathered for a course organized by the Pontifical Liturgical Institute of St. Anselm, the pope stressed that many parishes still lack adequate training programs and encouraged local churches to establish biblical and liturgical courses to deepen understanding of the weekday and feast day readings. He described the liturgy as a communal expression that requires intention, preparation and shared responsibility rather than being left solely to parish clergy or small volunteer groups. His remarks reaffirmed that formation remains a central priority of the post-conciliar mission, noting that although progress has been made, much work lies ahead as communities adapt to contemporary needs while honoring the principles of liturgical reform.
Pope Leo highlighted the importance of equipping lectors with clear diction, foundational biblical knowledge and the ability to support the community through proclamation and prayer. He also encouraged attention to the Liturgy of the Hours as an avenue for accessible spiritual growth and a means of strengthening prayer life beyond the Sunday Eucharist. The pope noted that popular piety deserves pastoral care and should be fostered in harmony with the liturgy rather than treated as a secondary or decorative element. He urged those responsible for constructing and adapting worship spaces to consider the celebratory dimension of architecture and design, ensuring that new and renovated churches reflect clarity, dignity and pastoral sensitivity. For parishes where liturgical groups have diminished, he called for renewed engagement and the development of teams that can collaborate with pastors, prepare celebrations and contribute to a healthier sense of shared stewardship over the Church’s common prayer.
He encouraged leaders to help parish priests offer structured formation for liturgical teams, guiding members in their responsibilities and strengthening their capacity to animate the community’s worship. The pope remarked that many groups have lost momentum over the years, making it essential to revitalize interest by involving individuals who demonstrate skill or motivation for this service. He stressed that revitalization should foster participation rather than delegation, cultivating an environment where parishioners understand themselves as active contributors to the liturgy. His appeal reflects a broader effort to ensure that worship remains both accessible and reverent, capable of welcoming different sensibilities while maintaining a sober and purposeful solemnity. This balance, he said, is essential for nurturing participation and supporting the spiritual life of the faithful as the Church continues to meet new pastoral challenges.
