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Contact: Sue Gerlach  633-8711 (ext. 12)

A number of ministries in the liturgy deal directly with music: organists, pianists and other instrumentalists, choir directors, members, cantors. The music minister is charged to develop in others the ways in which their art will be integral to the liturgy. Music ministers are leaders of prayer, with the constant challenge of turning performance into prayer.

CANTOR

The role of the cantor was restored to Roman Catholic liturgical practice by the reforms of the Second Vatican Council. The liturgy envisioned by the Council demanded that the people assembled be full, conscious and active participants. Such a liturgy needs a cantor. The ministry of the cantor generally includes:

• Sharing in proclaiming the Word of God, particularly as the psalmist.

• Animating the sung worship of the assembly.

• Teaching the assembly its songs, refrains and acclamations.

• Leading moments of worship through solo song.

The cantor is, first and foremost, clearly identified with those gathered. There is expectation that those in cantor ministry are members of the choir and attend regularly scheduled weekly choir rehearsal, as well as attending a variety of continuing ministry formation and education sessions offered throughout the year.

CHOIR MEMBER 

The choir is an essential part of the spiritual life of the worshipping assembly. Members must be able to sing their parts accurately and strive for a good ensemble sound. Rehearsals are held and attendance is required. Continuing ministry formation and education is offered throughout the year and attendance is expected and encouraged. An assessment of each new volunteer may be made.