Omer Westendorf
1916–2001 · USA · Modern
Omer Westendorf (1916-2001) was an American Benedictine monk and liturgical scholar who played a significant role in Catholic liturgical renewal during the post-Vatican II era. As a hymn writer and translator, he contributed numerous compositions and vernacular translations that helped modernize Catholic worship and make it more accessible to English-speaking congregations. Westendorf served as editor of the World Library of Sacred Music and was instrumental in promoting congregational participation in the liturgy through contemporary hymnody. His work bridged traditional Catholic liturgical practice with modern musical expression, earning him recognition as a pioneer in Catholic hymn writing and liturgical music reform.