What We Do
The National Liturgical Council (NLC) is an advisory body established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference (ACBC) to promote the liturgical life and mission of the Catholic Church in Australia. It operates under the guidance and authority of the Bishops Commission for Liturgy, and is supported by the National Office for Liturgy.
Rooted in the vision of the Second Vatican Council, particularly the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy (Sacrosanctum Concilium), the NLC works to ensure that the celebration of the Church’s liturgy — especially the Eucharist — continues to be the "source and summit" of Christian life. It aims to foster full, conscious, and active participation in the liturgy across all Australian dioceses and communities.
The Council is composed of appointed members who bring expertise in liturgy, sacramental theology, and pastoral ministry. It meets regularly to advise the Bishops Commission for Liturgy on national pastoral liturgical issues, developments, and priorities. Its key responsibilities include:
· Supporting the implementation of the Church’s liturgical directives in Australia
· Promoting liturgical formation and education
· Advising on national liturgical policies and resources
· Encouraging research, development, and pastoral creativity in liturgical ministry.
The NLC also collaborates with other liturgical advisory bodies established by the Commission, including the National Liturgical Architecture and Art Council and the National Liturgical Music Council, to ensure that all aspects of worship — from liturgical space to sacred music — are unified in purpose and faithful to the Church’s tradition.
Through this coordinated work, the National Liturgical Council helps shape the liturgical life of the Church in Australia in ways that are faithful, accessible, and pastorally effective.
