Music Ministry

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal, editio tertia typica, specifies how important the role of music is in the Church’s worship:

“Great importance should therefore be attached to the use of singing in the celebration of the Mass, with due consideration for the culture of the people and abilities of each liturgical assembly. Although it is not always necessary (e.g., in weekday Masses) to sing all the texts that are of themselves meant to be sung, every care should be taken that singing by the ministers and the people is not absent in celebrations that occur on Sundays and on holy days of obligation.”

Music does not serve solely to embellish the liturgy. It is integral if not essential. Father Gerard Dennis Gill in his recent book, Music in Catholic Liturgy, uses the phrase, “singing the Eucharist.” I love that phrase. It says so much about how we should take interest in music during our liturgies. It also emphasizes what the Psalms tell us so many times: Sing to the Lord and make a joyful noise unto Him.

The music program implements the directives of the Roman Missal in the following ways:

Cantoring

Cantors lead the assembly in song. Our cantors offer their time and talent to the parish by attending scheduled practices, using recorded media so that they might rehearse at home, exercise their ministry at an assigned Mass on weekends, holydays and other special liturgies.

They enjoy learning music and engaging our parishioners at Mass.

An audition and some “training” are required for those interested in this ministry. With the existing complement of cantors, one could expect to be assigned once every two to three weeks. Anyone -- teenager, young adult or senior – can serve as a cantor.

Choir

Choral Singing is an ancient and venerable tradition in the Church. Our choir likewise leads the assembly in song, but its function differs from that of the cantor. The adage, “There is strength in numbers” well describes choral singing. The joining of many voices to make one sound or a multi-lined sound adds to the dignity of the liturgy.

The Choir practices Thursdays at 7:30pm. The group usually sings on the 2^nd and 4^th Sundays of the month, on holy days such as Christmas-Midnight Mass, Holy Week, and other parish celebrations. Choir participation requires an audition/interview with the Music Director.

Bell Choir

While the use of bells in the form of song in worship is an ancient tradition, it is not a wide practice in Roman Catholic communities. Our Bell Choir, soon celebrating its 25th year, provides one of the finest examples of technical acuity and faithful participation in the liturgical life of the parish. This excellence we credit to the talent of our Bell Choir Director, Pat Potavan and the gifted “ringers” she leads.

The Bell Choir practices on Tuesdays at 7:30pm and performs at Mass on a rotating schedule. Those interested in joining the Bell Choir should contact Pat Potavan at 609- 306-6044 or the Music Office – 609-587-9876

Instrumental Solo and Ensemble

Presently, the Instrumental Ensemble consists of guitar, piano and voice. We are hoping to add other instruments to our ensemble. We warmly welcome any parishioner who plays the violin, clarinet, oboe, cello, flute, or other instrument to share their time and musical talent with our parish.

Practices are held once a month. The ensemble performs once a month (usually at the 11:00 am Mass at Our Lady of Sorrows Church).

Please contact Mr. Amantia if you are interested.

If you are interested in playing an instrument at Sunday mass in a solo capacity, please contact Mr. Amantia. They are many opportunities during Mass for a solo instrument to complement assembly singing or to provide the background for meditation and prayer.