The Word That Shapes Us: A reflection on the FDLC National Meeting
When the readings begin at Mass, a familiar passage can pass us by. Often we might think, “I have heard this Gospel before,” and tune it out. Yet Christ speaks to his Church now, addressing the lives we bring to this celebration.
From September 29–October 1, I attended the 2026 National Meeting of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions in Iowa City, representing the Diocese of Pueblo as Director of the Office of Worship. The gathering provided formation for my work advising Bishop Berg on liturgical matters and assisting our parishes.
The theme, “Word of God: Living and Effective,” drawn from Hebrews 4:12, focused our attention on Scripture throughout the Church’s worship. Beyond the readings, Scripture shapes our prayers, songs, and sacramental signs, drawing us into Christ’s death and resurrection.
Presentations by Dr. Christina Condyles, Father Paul Turner, and Father Michael Connors, CSC, along with workshops on Scripture in parish worship, deepened this reflection. One insight speaks to my priestly ministry: in the homily, we listen for what God’s Word is saying to the lives we bring to Mass.
The meeting also offered a glimpse into the Church’s work of preparing and revising the texts that support our worship. Father Dustin Dought, executive director of the USCCB Secretariat of Divine Worship, and Father David Price, associate director, shared updates from the Vatican on liturgical books. Their presentation reminded us that these texts are not simply administrative projects; they are part of the Church’s careful effort to hand on the faith through prayer. As new editions emerge, dioceses and parishes will have opportunities to prepare and receive them well.
Our prayer and reflection brought the week’s themes to life as we celebrated Mass together. Bishop Dennis Walsh, Bishop of Davenport and our host bishop, presided at St. Patrick Church. Archbishop Thomas Zinkula, Archbishop of Dubuque, presided at the University of Iowa Newman Catholic Student Center. Bishop Michael Woost, Auxiliary Bishop of Cleveland and chairman of the USCCB Committee on Divine Worship, presided at the closing Mass at St. Mary Church.
I bring this formation home with renewed attention to how we hear Christ in our parishes. Prayerful preparation helps lectors proclaim clearly. The sung psalm gives us words to answer God, while silence allows the Word to take root. At the table of the Word, Christ prepares us to receive him at the Eucharistic table and carry his love into the world.
Before your next Sunday Mass, spend a few quiet minutes with the Gospel. Carry one phrase into the week. Let it guide a difficult conversation or prompt an act of mercy. The Word we hear bears fruit as it shapes the life we live.
If you are interested in liturgical formation closer to home, the Southwest Liturgical Conference will hold its Study Week February 3–6, 2027, in Phoenix, Arizona.
For more information, visit www.swlc.org.
Rev. Michael Chrisman, Director of Worship, Diocese of Pueblo
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