There are many ways parishioners of all ages can become involved in the parish music ministry, primarily through the singing assembly. What follows is a description of each ensemble, as well as the expectations of those who participate. All inquiries should be made to Sr. Kathleen Harmon, Director of Music at 836-7535.
The primary musicians for worship are the faithful who gather weekly
to celebrate the Eucharist. Singing the psalms, acclamations, and hymns is
the duty of everyone gathered, not just a select few.
"The Church earnestly desires that all the faithful be led to that full, conscious, and active participation in liturgical celebrations which is demanded by the very nature of the liturgy. such participation by the Christian people....is their right and duty by reason of their baptism."-Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy
Parishioners who play musical instruments are invited to consider sharing their talent with the community. Instrumentalists are always welcome, especially during the "high seasons" of Christmas and Easter. Please contact the Music Director if you can add an instrumental flavor to our worship.
Handbell ringers contribute to our worship occasionally. While we do not have a formal bell choir, from time to time people gather to rehearse for ringing bells at upcoming celebrations. This ministry is open to parishioners of all ages, regardless of perceived musical talent or ability. Ringing is a great way to make music, and one need not be a singer at all. Handbell ministry may involve something as simple as ringing a bell during the Glory to God on Christmas (from one's space in the assembly) or as involved as being part of a group ringing a special handbell piece. Contact the Director of Music to become involved in ringing.
The role of cantor is to support and lead the singing assembly, and to proclaim psalms. To this end cantors must be competent not only as singers but as leaders of prayer. Persons interested in becoming a parish cantor need not be members of any choir. Cantors provide leadership in singing Sunday and Holy Day Masses, as well as parish celebrations of the Liturgy of the Hours. Cantors may be children, teenagers or adults. The following is expected of cantors:
The Schola Cantorum is an ensemble of four cantors, who are also members of the Adult Choir. The Schola sings additional weekend and Holy Day Masses, as well as some celebrations of the Liturgy of the Hours. This is a select group of singers, chosen by the Music Director.
The Saint Paul Adult Choir leads the sung prayer of the community regularly for the Paschal Triduum, Sunday and Holy Day Masses throughout the year. This mixed choir is open to all adult parishioners and adolescent singers as young as seventh grade, in consultation with the director. New members are welcomed throughout the year. No audition is required, and a schedule may be obtained from the Director of Music.
The Saint Paul Adult Choir rehearses on Thursday evenings from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30-9:00 p.m., depending on the demands of the season. The call for choir is always forty-five (45) minutes prior to the start of the celebration.
Generally, the choir takes a summer break beginning after the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. Rehearsals normally resume after Labor Day in September.
Members of the Saint Paul Adult Choir are persons who volunteer time and talent and are committed to the assembly they serve. To that end, each member agrees to:
click
here to return home