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Oct. 23, 2014
Monsignor Kevin Irwin, the Monsignor Walter J. Schmitz, S.S. Professor of Liturgical Studies at The Catholic University of America, was recently named the winner of the Frederick McManus Award by the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions. The award, which is given annually, honors an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to liturgical scholarship and ministerial formation on the national level.
Monsignor Irwin accepted his award Oct. 2 during the National Meeting of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical Commissions in Lombard, Ill. During his remarks, he spoke of the essential link between liturgy and justice and urged those present to recommit themselves to unity and peace and an "unfussy" approach to liturgical celebrations in order to bear better witness to Christ's gospel.
The award is named after the late Monsignor Frederick R. McManus, a priest from the Archdiocese of Boston and Catholic University professor emeritus who died in 2005. Monsignor McManus studied canon law at CUA before joining the faculty in 1958. During his tenure, he served as dean of the School of Canon Law, vice provost and dean of graduate studies, and academic vice president.
Monsignor Irwin said he was "shocked and deeply honored" to win the award.
"I am honored to receive this award from the community of liturgical leaders in the United States," said Monsignor Irwin. "These are the people who day in and day out serve in diocesan offices and offer ongoing instruction and formation on the liturgy. They assist our bishops in a variety of ways including the building and renovation of churches and setting diocesan policies on a number of liturgical issues."