Mission / Purpose
Congregational singing is an important part of the Mass and is a way for parishioners to participate in its celebration. Through congregational singing, parishioners are brought closer to Christ through the experience of uniting their voices and hearts together in song.
The Mass provides various moments calling for music to gather the congregation, to express contrition, to sing praise, to reflect on the Word, to offer petition, to give thanks, to profess the great Amen, to help us reflect during Communion, and finally to send us out to share the good news of our salvation with others. The musicians work together as a team in helping to make this happen.
The music ministry’s primary objective is to lead and engage parishioners in song and praise that invites and encourages the congregation to enter into song as a form of prayer. Its musicians seek to actively draw people together and foster unity among parishioners in celebration of the Mass.
Activities / Programs
The music ministry is responsible for the liturgical music for all weekend and special liturgies at St. Leonard’s Parish. Its role is to evaluate the music requirements that most closely correspond to the liturgical readings of the day and the sacraments being celebrated, guided by the Lectionary and liturgical norms of the Church.
Every week, the group’s leader consults the Lectionary and chooses music appropriate to the readings from a repertoire of songs with which our parishioners are familiar. A song list is drawn up and emailed to all choir members.
How to get involved
Accomplished musicians with an understanding of liturgy are welcome to inquire.
Approximate time commitment
During Ordinary Time, the practices for the choir ministry are usually held during the week. Additional practices are required for Masses during the different liturgical seasons and times of the year, such as the Easter Vigil, Holy Thursday, Ash Wednesday, and other celebrations.
Volunteers commit to 2-4 hours per month (1 hour practice and 1 hour at Mass - usually 2-3 masses per month). We also have several choirs and musicians who alternate providing services for the various masses and services that we offer.