“Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.” —-Leo Buscaglia
God gave many of us the gift of music-making. Are you one of those fortunate people? And are you willing to share your gift in making our liturgies more meaningful and joyful? We are currently looking to expand the music program and need volunteers to help.
In a recent U.S. Catholic survey, eighty percent of those questioned said that music at Mass was very important to them. However, only thirteen percent were totally satisfied with the music that they have and actually sing. The music at Mass is important, very important! It is not simply a performance by a soloist or choir, a background to accompany our prayer, a means to create a mood, or an incentive to shout and clap our hands. Music is integral to our liturgical worship. Indeed, Saint Augustine once said, “The person who sings, prays twice!”
Woodwinds, brass, guitar, bass guitar, drums and percussion all have a place in liturgy. Well-trained singers could volunteer as cantors and those who want to sing in a choir are most welcome. For the former, one only needs to be able to carry a tune and have the desire to sing with others in harmony. And if you’re an accomplished pianist, you could be an occasional substitute.
Mark Adrian, our Director of Music, is seeking to implement some changes to Our Lady of Fatima’s liturgical music. Beginning soon, our new format for music at Mass will be as follows:
SATURDAY, 5:30 pm
Mix of traditional and contemporary songs with piano. Additional instruments may be added as they become available. A cantor currently leads the singing, but we’re looking to develop a small group of singers.
SUNDAY, 7:30 am
Traditional hymns with organ, led by a cantor/song-leader.
SUNDAY, 10:00 am
Mix of traditional and contemporary songs with piano accompaniment. Additional instruments may be added as they become available. The adult choir leads the singing and often presents a “solo” anthem during Preparation-of- Gifts and/or Communion.
SUNDAY 12:00, noon
A more contemporary style of music is planned, with guitar, bass guitar, drums/percussion, and piano. Songs will be presented that are not typically found in the Music Issue or Today’s Missal. A cantor currently leads the singing, but we’re looking to develop a small group of singers.
Has God given you the gift of music? Are you willing to share it with us?
Let’s see how we can include your talent in our liturgies. Call Mark Adrian at the church office: 505-265-5868.