Music Ministry
Serving God through the ministry of sacred music.
The mission of the Music Ministry is to glorify God, enrich the liturgy, and engage the congregation in active participation and worship thereby deepening our relationship with God.
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Who We Are
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Key Roles
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Key Responsibilities
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Significance
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Who Can Serve
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Contacts and More
Music ministry is a liturgical role where musicians, cantors, and choir members lead the congregation in sung prayer during Liturgy, especially Mass. Rooted in the belief that “he who sings, prays twice” (St. Augustine), the primary purpose of music ministry is not performance, but to facilitate the active participation of the faithful in worship. It serves to minister to God (praise and worship) and minister to people (proclaiming the Word and fostering community).
- Director of Music: The leader who oversees the entire parish music program. They plan the musical repertoire for the liturgical year, coordinate schedules, and direct choirs and instrumentalists.
- Cantor: The vocalist who leads the congregation in communal responses and sings specific parts of the liturgy (like the Responsorial Psalm) from the ambo.
- Accompanist: The organist or pianist (or other musician) who provides the foundational music and supports the choir and congregation. At St. Richard Parish, the Music Director is generally the primary musician.
- Choir Members & Instrumentalists: Volunteers who sing or play instruments (such as guitar, harp, violin, or brass) to enhance the liturgy during weekend Masses, holidays, or funerals. (Note: The Choir generally sings for the Easter Triduum, Pentecost, Thanksgiving Mass, and Christmas. Other special occasions may be arranged at the discretion of the Pastor.)
- Liturgical Planning: Music is chosen specifically to align with the Scripture readings, the liturgical season (e.g. Advent, Lent), and the specific rites of the Mass.
- Prayer Over Performance: Music ministry is viewed as an act of service and prayer rather than a musical performance.
- Community Building: Ministry members often engage in weekly rehearsals and work to foster a sense of fellowship and spiritual growth among the musicians.
- Enhancing the Liturgy: Music is an integral part of the Mass, not just background filler. It sets the tone for the liturgical season (such as the solemnity of Lent or the joy of Easter) and helps prepare our hearts to receive the Eucharist.
- Evangelization & Catechesis: The lyrics and chants reinforce Church teachings, allowing music to function as a way to teach the faith and spread the Gospel.
- Serving the Assembly: The Choir, Cantors, and Instrumentalists act as leaders of song. They ultimately empower the congregation to sing and pray together.
Any parishioner over the age of 16 can serve in the Music ministry. An informal audition with the Music Director is necessary and can be set up at the convenience of anyone interested. A knowledge of musical notations is helpful, but not necessary.
The Music Director meets with Cantors on a weekly basis in preparation for their individual, scheduled Mass times.
The Music Director meets with Choir members 3 to 4 times per year as determined by the needs of the liturgical seasons.
Anyone who wishes to sing or play for the Lord in this special way is invited and encouraged to call the Parish Office to arrange a conversation with our Music Director.
Josephine Martin is our Music Director.
Please call the Parish Office at (717) 665-2465 to arrange for a conversation with Josephine.