Covering the USCCB
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texts for some liturgies, such as the readings and proper prayers for Masses
commemorating U.S. saints; and adaptation or implementation of Vatican
norms for sacred art, architecture and music. In Catholic usage,
liturgy
refers
not only to the Mass, but to all official forms of church worship. This includes
the celebration of all the sacraments and the Liturgy of the Hours, which is
the official prayers and readings all clergy and many religious are required to
recite at various times daily to dedicate their entire day to God.
The executive director of the Secretariat of Divine Worship is Fr. Michael
J. Flynn.
Committee on Doctrine
Charged with addressing doctrinal issues in a variety of contexts, this com-
mittee may be called upon to examine the orthodoxy of a U.S. Catholic theo-
logian’s teachings or writings, but more often it is asked to collaborate with
other USCCB committees by assessing the doctrinal aspects of proposed state-
ments, pastoral letters or policy positions. The Secretariat of Doctrine pro-
vides expertise on theological, moral and doctrinal matters, including issues
of faith and science and Catholic health care. Jesuit Father Peter F. Ryan is the
secretariat’s executive director.
Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development
Formerly called the Committee on Domestic Policy, it seeks to spread knowl-
edge and understanding of Catholic social teaching in the United States and
to support and encourage programs in the church and in society that will
advance human dignity and the common good. In the public policy arena, it
advocates for the poor and vulnerable and for justice and peace. It has a per-
manent Subcommittee on the Catholic Campaign for Human Development,
which oversees the program funding and education components of that yearly
anti-poverty collection in U.S. parishes. Mark Rohlena is director of domestic
justice and human development.
Note:
The Department of Justice, Peace and Human Development—for-
merly called the Department of Social Development and World Peace—coor-
dinates the work of the USCCB’s domestic and international offices and serves
both this Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development and the
Committee on International Justice and Peace (see below). Jonathan Reyes is
secretary of justice, peace and human development. In the “About Us” link on
its Web site, the department has a detailed list of staff members, their areas of
responsibility, and their contact information.