Rev. Balash directs diocese office of worship

Staff report

youngstown

The Rev. Michael Balash has been appointed director of the Office of Worship for the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown by Bishop George V. Murry.

The director works to enable the people of God to better celebrate the presence of Christ in worship and sacraments. Among other duties, the director advises and serves as a resource to the diocesan bishop on liturgical matters; serves as chair of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission, implementing liturgical policies and recommendations generated by that Commission; aids in preparing and coordinating diocesan liturgical celebrations (ordinations, Rite of Election, Chrism Mass, Easter Triduum, Christmas, Confirmation celebrations at the cathedral and other diocesan celebrations); facilitates ongoing development of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults; offers consultation and in-service to parishes in the areas of worship, sacraments and Christian Initiation; executes the process of formation of lay leaders of prayer; assists diocesan offices in the preparation of liturgical celebrations sponsored by those offices.

Father Balash was ordained June, 20, 1987. He previously served as associate pastor at St. Michael Church in Canton and St. Patrick Church in Kent. Following additional studies at the University of Notre Dame, Father Balash served as pastor at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Ashtabula, St. Joseph Church in Mantua and currently is at St. William Church in Champion, where he will continue his pastorate.

He also served as dean of Ashtabula County Deanery. He has served as a member and secretary of the diocesan Priests’ Council and as a member of the Diocesan Board of Religious Education. He has been a member of the Diocesan Liturgical Commission since 1999.

On the national level, Father Balash serves on the National Board of Directors of the Federation of Diocesan Liturgical commissions as co-representative for Ohio and Michigan, as a member of the executive committee and currently as treasurer.