The Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium states that the Office for the Liturgical Celebrations of the Supreme Pontiff is responsible for preparing whatever is needed for the liturgical and other sacred celebrations in the Vatican at which the Pope, or – in his name and by his mandate – a Cardinal or other Prelate presides, participates or attends. It also arranges everything necessary or useful for their dignified celebration and for the active participation of the faithful (art. 231, § 1). 

A significant part of the work of the Office involves the preparation and publication of texts for the celebrations, aimed at promoting the worthy and active participation of the faithful. The Office also prepares and oversees all papal liturgical celebrations, including those that take place during the Pope’s Apostolic Journeys, with due consideration for the specific nature of the papal liturgy (art. 231, § 2). The Office likewise is competent for the celebration of the Consistory and for directing the liturgical celebrations of the College of Cardinals during the vacancy of the Apostolic See (art. 234).