Cantate Domino canticum novum!
Sing to the Lord a new song!
Ps. 95

"The musical tradition of the Universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art.  The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred song united to sacred words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn Liturgy"  Sacrosanctum Concilium, 112.

These words from the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council are a good introduction to the importance of liturgical music and the service of singing.  Sacred song lifts the heart and mind to contemplation of God in his splendor, and serves to edify the faithful here on earth.  We Christians sing as a response of joy to the everlasting salvation offered to us by Almighty God.  

Music ministry at Holy Family Catholic Church is a unique experience in serving the Lord and singing the psalms.  We focus especially on singing the proper Entrance and Communion chants, in addition to beautifying the liturgy with other songs and hymns.

The choir leads the congregation in sung prayer at the 12:00 p.m. Sunday Mass beginning after Labor Day and ending in May or June on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. They also lead the music ministry at all major feasts and solemnities. Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. 

Instrumentalists are also welcome to share their gifts as part of the music ministry. If you have played an orchestral instrument for at least two years, contact Cyndee for more information. It is necessary to be able to read music with three sharps or flats. 

Choir and Cantor

Since singing takes pride of place in liturgical worship, and Catholic liturgy requires so much singing, the roles of singers are divided into three groups:  choir, cantor, and psalmist. In some places the responsorial Psalm is sung by a vocalist called the Psalmist. Here, the cantor takes that role in addition to leadership of all the music.

Choir

The choir forms an integral part of liturgical ministry.  Drawn from those faithful with the requisite skill and desire, the choir serves as a principal voice during the singing of the Liturgy. The choir supports and embellishes the voice of the faithful with beautiful harmonies and supplies a richness and depth that reflects the profundity of the God whom they worship.  The choir also sings works drawn from the centuries of sacred music.

Cantor

The cantor is a skilled singer who serves as a leader of congregational song, especially when the choir is not present. The cantor helps lead and intone the various parts of the liturgy and helps build the confidence of the congregation with surety in song. The cantor proclaims the Psalm and the verse before the Gospel reading.