Liturgy is not the private hobby of a particular group; it is about the bond which holds heaven and earth together, it is about the human race and the entire created world.

-Pope Benedict XVI

Christopher Carstens is the Directing Editor of the Adoremus Bulletin, Director of the Office of Sacred Worship in the Diocese of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, and co-founder of the new Institute for Liturgical Formation at Christendom College. He serves as a consultant to the USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship and co-hosts the "Becoming God" podcast. He is a widely acknowledged expert on proper liturgical practice, and has written a number of books, including Principles of Sacred Liturgy: Forming a Sacramental Vision. Mr. Carstens will speak about ongoing efforts to restore reverence and integrity to the Catholic liturgy. His talk will address the ars celebrandi called for by recent popes. When a liturgy centers on God, celebrates the rite in such a way that God’s glory appears and trains the people to encounter Christ in the rite, true beauty appears in our midst and in our world.

Our luncheons are held at the Carlisle Banquet Hall, 435 East Butterfield Road, Lombard. Convenient parking available.
Prompt reservations are very much appreciated by our volunteers and the staff at the Carlisle Banquet Hall.
11:30: Doors Open
12:00: Lunch and Program Commence
1:30: Program Ends
Suggested dress: Business
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Questions, please contact info@catholiccitizens.org

Catholic Citizens of Illinois is an Illinois not-for-profit organization founded in 1997 by Mary Anne Hackett and the late Thomas Roeser in response to the Second Vatican Council’s call for authentic lay involvement in the life of the Church and society. Our mission is to equip lay Catholics with the knowledge and formation needed to bring the Catholic faith and culture into the public square.

Through effective, non-partisan programs, we address American culture and public policy with unwavering fidelity to Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the Magisterium of the Catholic Church. We seek to enhance the Catholic laity’s understanding of their civic responsibilities -- advocating for religious liberty, the sanctity of life from conception to natural death, and the natural institution of marriage as a lifelong union between one man and one woman.

In keeping with the spirit of Lumen Gentium (§38), we encourage Catholics to be what the soul is to the body: a leaven in society, bearing spiritual fruit and bearing witness to Christ. To that end, we host monthly luncheons and an annual fundraising dinner featuring prominent speakers who address timely issues of concern to our membership and guests.

CCI Forum Luncheon - November 14, 2025

By Catholic Citizens of Illinois

CCI Forum Luncheon - November 14, 2025

Three Ingredients for a Beautiful Liturgy