Happy New Year and Many Thanks!

It is said that it is quite dangerous to mention a “thanks” to large groups of people because you always risk forgetting someone. With that in mind I’ve decided that it’s well worth the risk as I attempt to thank those who make the ministries of Music and Liturgy run smoothly...

First, I’d like to thank the Adult Choir, now 28 members strong and sounding better than ever! Twice a week you dedicate hours of your time practicing and singing your praises to God. It’s been a productive year, “in tune” with the Lord!

To our cantors: Your hard work and dedication has not gone unnoticed. Learning the new sung text in the Roman Missal Mass parts was not an easy task! Keep vocalizing!

To the Youth Ministry Chorus, the newbies on the block: You’ve shown your love for the Lord through your glorious music and you inspire us all. It is refreshing to make music with you. Looking forward to new songs in 2012!

To those instrumentalists who donated time and played so beautifully (Accordion – Fred Gregorich, Viola – Mike Cresanta, Guitarist - Paul Koleske, Flautist - Rachel Deren, Trumpeter – Nick Barthen, Keyboardist — Evan Gregorius): Many thanks for your time and talent this year.

And to the family of Ted Breault, Mardi Gras Band Drummer: It was a privilege to work with Ted who was such a talented musician. I just know he’s in heaven making sure the angel chorus stays in rhythm!

To the Worship Committee who helps me with Liturgy and Environment: Your talent, ideas, inspiration and dedication to this ministry has made our church a beautiful, prayerful and glorious place of worship!

To all who serve and coordinate our ministries: Thank you for your help scheduling and overseeing things. It is inspiring to see your daily dedication. Things run smoothly because of you!

To all who gave me Christmas cards and gifts, who offered a kind word or offered to help me with my daily tasks: I thank you from the bottom of my heart. May Christ fill your homes and your hearts with love in 2012!

Christmas Songs and Traditions

This year I will celebrate my 37th Christmas in service to the Church of Pittsburgh as an organist and choir director. I’ve had the privilege and pleasure of learning Christmas music from many different cultural backgrounds depending on the church in which I was working at the time. I’ve learned Christmas carols from Germany, Italy, Poland, Slovenia and Ireland. So many treasured songs have been passed down from generation to generation. One such song is “Tu Scendi Dalle Stelle.” I’ve decided to include the Italian lyrics and a general translation this week.

Tu scendi dalle stelle,

O Re del Cielo,

e vieni in una grotta,

al freddo al gelo.

O Bambino mio Divino

Io ti vedo qui a tremar,

O Dio Beato

Oh! Quanto ti costò

l’avermi amato!

From starry skies descending,

O King of heaven,

To a lowly cave you come

in the cold.

O my Divine Child,

I see you tremble here.

Oh blessed God,

to love you comes

with great cost!

As a child I remember this song playing in my home as my grandmother, mother and aunt baked cookies for the many relatives that would come to visit. It brings to mind the smells of lemon, orange and anise. May it bring pleasant memories to you, as well! May you have a very Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year!

The Season of Light

There are many images that come to mind when we speak of the season of Advent -- certainly the Advent Wreath, in its simple way depicts the coming of the Christ Child, the Savior, the Light of the World, its candles consuming themselves as they burn. There are many references to "light" in the Gospel:

 

• Matthew 4:16: "The people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen.

• Luke 2:32: “...a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and glory for your people Israel.” 

• Ephesians 5:8: “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.”

 

Today we enter the final week of Advent. Traditionally the “O Antiphons” are sung during vespers this week: "O Wisdom," "O Lord," "O Root of Jesse," "O Key of David," "O Dayspring," "O King of the nations," "O God is with us."

 

These antiphons are found in the song, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” each referring to the Prophesies of Isaiah. We will sing verses 1 and 7 this weekend, as is the tradition on the 4th Sunday of Advent. With the winter solstice on December 21, this “shortest day” means later sunsets and more evening light as winter progresses. Last week we watched as luminaria were lit along our sidewalks and courtyard. Today I saw a beautiful Christmas card by one of my favorite artists, Thomas Kinkade, the "painter of light." As the fourth candle on the Advent wreath is lit, may its light illumine your way as our souls, in stillness await the coming of the Savior, the true "Light of the World!"

Traditions and Recipes

Have you visited our parish web site lately?

Last week, we kicked off a new special interest section of our web site called, “Holiday Traditions.” In this section parishioners and friends of our parish will be able to submit stories, recipes and photos of their cherished traditions around the holidays. We are currently taking stories about Christmas and New Year's Day. In January we will begin accepting stories for the Easter holiday. If you have a general story you would like to submit for any holiday, you may do so and we will save it for that particular time of year.

The purpose of this section is to share stories and build community. For those new to our parish, it provides a way to get to know others in our family of faith. I encourage you to log on, to read, and to send in stories.

Submissions may be dropped off at or mailed to the rectory or e-mailed.

The New Roman Missal - Successful Launch!

Last weekend saw a momentous change in the Church — the New Roman Missal was initiated at all English-speaking countries throughout the world. What an exciting time to be a part of Roman Catholic history! Of course, as with any change, it will require time to adjust. But we all know that practice and repetition will help us more each week.

As I looked down from the loft last weekend I noticed that most people in the congregation were using the “help cards." Those cards are a useful tool, as the new words are printed in red. For those who prefer to hold only one reference tool, the Order of Mass begins on page 3 of the Heritage Missal. Some said it was a bit confusing shifting back and forth between too many items in the pews so they used the missal.

Others asked for the song booklets containing the “Mass of Christ the Savior” to be returned to the pews. They were removed to make room for the help cards. For those of you who need the music, the “Mass of Christ the Savior” is found on page 42 of the Heritage Missal. I will also try to remember to inform the congregation before Mass begins as to which Mystery of Faith we’ll be using (in the Eucharistic Prayer) until the organ introductions are more familiar.

Last weekend I found that I, too, had to really concentrate on what I was doing and work very hard at keeping it all straight. On the organ’s music stand sat the accompaniment book for the Mass of Christ the Savior, my song and prayer roster, the Heritage Missal, a copy of a page out of the Sacramentary, the Mass help card, and the choral arrangement of the Mass! Again, we’re in this together! In time we will see the fruits of our labor. With each passing week we will become more comfortable and be able to worship with praise and rejoicing!

The New Roman Missal: Ready, Set, Here We Go!

Welcome, Liturgical Year B! With the First Sunday of Advent, we usher in a new liturgical year, and with it comes the changes in the Roman Missal.

For two months we have been practicing the sung parts of Dan Schutte’s “Mass of Christ, the Savior.” Our “help cards” are in the pews. We will need to follow them carefully. We will surely make mistakes, but that’s okay. It’s an exciting time in the Church!

Our new Heritage Missals are in the pews for the calendar year 2012. For those who prefer to follow along in the missal rather than from the “help card,” the Order of Mass starts on page 3 of the Heritage Missal.

We begin the Mass with “Come, O Promised One.” This is a simple melody that is repeated after the cantor intones it. We follow that with one verse of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” We will do this each of the four weeks.

Because it is Advent, the “Gloria” is omitted. The Gospel Acclamation (Alleluia) is a familiar one that we use during Advent. Most notably will be the changes in the “Eucharistic Prayer” and the sung “Mystery of Faith.” If you still need to follow the music from the “Mass of Christ the Savior,” you can look on page 41 of the Heritage Missal. There you will find the “Holy,” “Mystery of Faith,” and on the next page, the rest of the sung parts. I will be sure to remind everyone of that before Mass. Happy “New Liturgical Year” to all!

Saint Cecilia — Patron Saint of Pastoral Musicians

“A Musician’s Prayer” by Ginny Ambrose

Thank you Lord,

for the privilege of this ministry.

Allow me to serve You with each melody...

with every cadence, let my love soar.

May I be selfless…

seeking only grace and the ability

to be Your musical messenger…

invisible… nameless… faceless…

only a vessel which pours forth

Your praise and helps others to do the same.

Temper my nerves, dear Lord,

when my fingers fall upon a wrong note…

when my ear tells me I’m singing off key…

when my voice cracks and fails me.

Keep me faithful so that I may not count

tasks, days, hours, or minutes spent

preparing, practicing or praising You.

Thank you Lord,

for any ability You afforded me,

knowing that I’d someday use it to serve You.

May my music reflect Your goodness

each and every day that I live. Amen.

The New Roman Missal - Posture and Gesture

As the Church began to grow, the Order of the Mass took shape. Eventually it became more organized into what we call “ritual” or “rites.” Over time those rituals were fine-tuned and refined. So too, were the movements that are associated with our posture and gestures.

Posture and gesture have always been an important and symbolic element and most are performed with ease like the Sign of the Cross at the beginning, before the Gospel and at the end of Mass. The symbolism and traditional gestures have been “re-emphasized” with the changes in the new Missal.

For instance, striking oneself over the chest during the Penitential Act (Confiteor) while reciting the words “through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault,” and a reverent bowing of the head during the words of the Creed, “was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man” are two gestures which are called for in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (275a).

During the Eucharistic Prayer, the priest shows the Consecrated Host and the chalice to the people. Many feel the need to bow their heads here, rather than look upon the Bread and chalice. However, it is suggested that the people look at the Host and chalice and bow their heads after each is lowered to the altar, when the priest genuflects or bows his head (574).

At the Lord’s Prayer we have adopted an array of gestures depending upon cultures and practices of individual parishes. The GIRM does not recommend a particular gesture here so, in other words, do what comes naturally!

When receiving Communion each person is to bow the head “as a gesture of reverence” (160). When this bow takes place may vary. Some may bow upon reaching the Communion station and others when the priest or minister says, “The Body of Christ,” either being an acceptable practice.

This has been the “Cliffs Notes” version of some posture and gesture at Mass. For a detailed description, you may want to pick up a copy of Paul Turner’s book, “Let Us Pray: A Guide to the Rubrics of Sunday Mass” (Liturgical Press).

The New Roman Missal - Ecce Agnus Dei (Behold the Lamb of God)

This week we “fall back” by turning the clock back one hour. So too, in the New Roman Missal the Church “falls back” to texts translated from the former Missale Romanum. For those of you who can remember the Mass before the Vatican II changes came about, this response will be a familiar one. I remember thinking as a child, that I really didn’t want the Lord “under my roof." In my innocent mind, I pictured the Lord creeping into my attic and sitting there. My attic scared the daylights out of me enough already. But of course as the changes in the prayers came about I realized the silliness of my literal translation of “under my roof.”

“And Jesus went with them, but when he was only a short distance from the house, the centurion sent friends to tell him, ‘Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof. Therefore, I did not consider myself worthy to come to out; but say the word and let my servant be healed’” (Luke 7: 6-7).

Clearly you can see the words of the Communion Rite are taken directly from scripture. Jesus comes physically and spiritually into us - body, mind and soul. As we kneel in humble preparation for the banquet, inviting the Lord to come under our roof, let us use this time to reflect on His mercy, for it is only with His Word that we can be truly healed.

The New Roman Missal - The Sign of Peace

“Peace be with you.” “And with your spirit.” It is a new response to a familiar dialogue between priest and people gathered at Mass. Notice the uncapitalized “s” in the word spirit. It is with that in mind that I offer the following article from St. Stanislaus Parish in Lansdale, PA. The article appeared in their bulletin dated October 9, 2011.

“And with your spirit.” The Big Difference in a Little Phrase…

These are very ancient liturgical greetings used by Christians. When the Roman Liturgy was translated from Latin into modern European languages in the 1960’s, Italian, French, Spanish, German and Slavonic languages all retained the literal translation; only the English translation abandoned this ancient form of Christian greeting. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is known as “Sacred Liturgy,” “Sacred Mystery.”

This exchange of greetings between priest and people during the Sacred Liturgy establishes us as the praying Church united in the love of Christ. So, to which spirit are we referring -- the Holy Spirit or the human spirit? Responding to the priest by saying, “and with your spirit,” acknowledges that the priest exercises the Sacred Ministry by virtue of a Divine Spiritual Gift, given to him at his ordination.

As Saint John Chrysostom states: “The right offering of the gift is not a work of human nature, but the Mystic Sacrifice is brought about by the Grace of the Holy Spirit.” We are referring to the special grace gift of the Spirit by which men are made priests, praying that grace will continue to enable them to perform all their duties in holiness.

By the laying on of the hands at his ordination, the priest receives the power of the Holy Spirit, so that he may be able to perform the Divine Mysteries. In essence, the people’s response to the priest can be interpreted as, “to you, also, be peace with the Spirit of the priesthood which you have received” … “And with your spirit.” The big difference in a little phrase… (by LaVerne Scheetz — Reprinted with permission.)

The New Roman Missal - Mystery of Faith

What's happened to "Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again?” I am sure these are questions I will be asked in the coming months as we move toward implementation of The Third Edition of the Roman Missal.

The “Memorial Acclamation," as we have been used to calling it, is the short musical response to the priest’s announcement that we should proclaim the mystery of faith. We respond with any of the choices of acclamations such as, “Lord, by your cross and resurrection you have set us free. You are the Savior of the world.” The English Sacramentary offers us four choices. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops retained the use of “Christ has died” in the revised English translation of the Missal but it is not a direct translation of any of the Latin acclamations. And so with this most recent edition it has been eliminated. And along with that change we have been instructed to now begin calling it, the “Mystery of Faith."

On September 18 we began learning the new musical setting of Dan Schutte’s “Mass of Christ the Savior." Since then we have learned the “Holy Holy,” the “Lord Have Mercy,” the “Alleluia,” and part of the “Glory to God.” In the coming weeks we’ll learn the new settings for the “Mystery of Faith." Because we are used to responding by rote, these changes will require us to participate actively and consciously.

We will be required to put more effort into our singing. We’re all in this together. In time, we’ll soon be comfortable with the changes. Credo Deus!

The New Roman Missal - Sanctus

Imagine a banquet more elegant than the Royal Wedding of Katherine and William, more elaborate than a state dinner at the White House, more exquisite than the most beautiful Fall day you can imagine. The banquet I speak of is that which we witness each week - the banquet of the Lord. Now imagine our priest as the host, standing at the altar of the Lord, praying at the altar, inviting us to the banquet, while a multitude of heavenly hosts hover, chanting and singing, “Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts. Heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest.” Who would not want to be a part of that banquet?

When we sing the “Sanctus” we join with the Church in heaven and with all creation to praise God. The angels never cease singing the Sanctus in heaven.

“In the earthly liturgy we take part in a foretaste of that heavenly liturgy which is celebrated in the holy city of Jerusalem toward which we journey as pilgrims, where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God, minister of the holy of holies and of the true tabernacle.” (Msgr. M. Francis Mannion, priest and theologian of the Diocese of Salt Lake City from Our Sunday Visitor, August 28, 2011).

The New Roman Missal - Preface Dialogue

During the Mass, after the prayer over the gifts and before the singing of the "Sanctus" ("Holy, Holy, Holy"), a short dialogue takes place. It is called the “Preface Dialogue” and it calls us to lift our hearts and focus on the heavenly banquet that is about to take place.

The current preface dialogue reads:

The Lord be with you.

And also with you.

Lift up your hearts.

We lift them up to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God.

It is right to give him thanks and praise.

On the front of the bulletin, you will find the new changes in the preface dialogue that will take place on November 27. These new changes reflect the Latin text with greater accuracy, inviting us to join the angels and the saints in the great hymn of joy in the "Sanctus."

The Latin preface, and now the new preface, reads:

Dominus vobiscum (The Lord be with you.)

Et cum spiritu tuo (And with your spirit.)

Sursum corda (Lift up your hearts.)

Habemus ad Dominum (We lift them up to the Lord.)

Gratias agamus, Domino Deo nostro. (Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.)

Dignum et justum est (It is right and just.)

Because we are raised to new life in Christ, we are invited by Christ in the person of the priest to enter the heavenly liturgy and join in the banquet. Just imagine eating at a banquet table with saints and angels... with that thought in mind, can we ever take this dialogue for granted again?

I am guessing this will be a tough change for most of us. Why? It is a rote response, and like Pavlov’s dog, who had been conditioned to expect a meal at the ringing of a bell, we have been conditioned to respond to these prayers with an automatic reply. With time, patience, and some practice, we will eventually get it right. In this holy liturgy, we, like the saints have been sent an invitation that is like none other - whether or not we "R.S.V.P." with enthusiasm is up to us. Sursum corda!

The New Roman Missal - The Nicene Creed

When I began working as an organist, the Credo was still sung at the “High Mass” every other Sunday in my church -- in Latin. Musically it was the most difficult part of the Mass to learn, even harder than the complex parts of the “Gloria." Accompanying the choir during that huge piece of work meant hours of practice at the organ and with the choir director. I would fidget during the homily and was nervous until after the Credo was finished. Because it took long to sing, the people were prompted to sit rather than stand by Fr. Dominic Olivieri, our pastor. Mostly, the choir sang and the assembly listened and probably prayed the Creed to themselves. I would say that it was performed by the choir rather than prayed by the people. I knew something needed to change, but at the age of 16, I also knew not to complain! Soon, the practice of singing the Credo gave way to reciting it -- in English. (And I was relieved.)

In November we will implement the New Roman Missal changes in the Nicene Creed. A copy of the new text is on the front of the bulletin. We will notice the change in the beginning -- “We believe” is now "I believe" (from the Latin word, “credo” which literally means, “I believe.”) And surely some new words will catch our attention -- "Consubstantial” (from the Latin, “consubstantialem”, meaning “of the same substance”) and “Incarnate" (meaning “Embodied in flesh; in human form”).

Reciting the Creed together at Mass expresses our unity with God and one another. These significant changes help us to do this with greater meaning.

The New Roman Missal - At the Gospel

"The reading of the Gospel is the high point of the Liturgy of the Word.”

- General Instruction of the Roman Missal 60; LM13

The priest or deacon addresses the people with, “The Lord be with you.” The new response is, “And with your spirit.” Then the priest or deacon continues with, “A reading from the holy Gospel according to N.” The people’s new response is, “Glory to you, O Lord.” The priest’s greeting and the people’s response should stir their faith and prepare them for the Gospel reading. You may not even notice the small change in the people’s response. The “O” has been added before the word, “Lord”.

“... in regards to the Mass, how we have celebrated it has changed vastly over the years; who we have celebrated has remained constant.”

— Fr. Jim Gretz, Director of the Diocesan Department for Worship in the Pittsburgh Catholic (November 19, 2010)

This week we will learn the new “Lord Have Mercy” (“Kyrie Eleison”). Please try to come a little earlier than usual to learn the new sung parts of the Mass so that when Advent arrives, we will be ready to lift our voices high in praise of God!

The New Roman Missal - The Gloria

“The Gloria is a very ancient and venerable hymn in which the Church, gathered together in the Holy Spirit, glorifies and entreats God the Father and the Lamb. The text of this hymn may not be replaced by any other text… It is sung or said on Sundays outside the Seasons of Advent and Lent, on solemnities and feasts, and at special celebrations of a more solemn character.”

- General Instruction of the Roman Missal (#115)

The changes in the Roman Missal, which were begun in the year 2000 by Pope John Paul II, overseen by the International Commission on English in the Liturgy (ICEL), approved in November of 2009 by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and given final approval by the Vatican in April of 2010, are being implemented this Advent of 2012.

Notice that in the “Gloria” the new words are a more literal translation of the Latin text. For instance, in the Latin text of the “Gloria” reads, “Laudamus te, benedicimus te, adoramus te, glorificamus te.” The new translation in the vernacular says, “We praise you, we bless you, we adore you, we glorify you.” (Presently we say, “We worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.”) Put side by side, you can clearly see that the translation is more literally transcribed.

This month we will learn parts of the new “Gloria”. As we learn these new words, let us always pray and sing, “In Gloria Dei Patris.” In the glory of God the Father. Amen!

The New Roman Missal - The Penitential Act

This week I will cover the changes in the Penitential Act which takes place at the beginning of Mass, before the Liturgy of the Word. This new translation takes effect at Advent of this 2011.

In the new Form A of the Penitential Act the priest first invites the faithful to acknowledge their sins, to which they respond and recite the Confiteor: “I confess to almighty God and to you my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do, through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault; therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin, all the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God.”

The changed text has been highlighted and underlined for you.

At times, the priest will use Form B:

Priest: Have mercy on us, O Lord.

People: For we have sinned against you.

Priest: Show us, O Lord, your mercy.

People: And grant us your salvation.

Finally, Form C, which includes the familiar, “Lord have mercy, Christ have mercy, Lord have mercy.” This form has not changed. We typically sing this part of the Mass during Lent and Advent.

Next week: The Gloria

Turning the Page: “And With Your Spirit”

This past Thursday we began a new month. As I turned the page on my calendar, I thought about all the times I've turned this particular page, ushering in September. Because I am a “summer person,” this is a difficult transition for me, as the new month is usually a harbinger of colder evenings, as well as the first day of autumn. But eventually I accept the drop in temperature and get used to the idea that fall will arrive soon!

This coming Advent the Church will “turn a page” in history. The words we are used to praying during Mass will change on November 27, 2011, the first Sunday of Advent. The Third Edition of the Roman Missal will be implemented in all English speaking countries. People will have new texts and music to learn. In the coming weeks I will be teaching new sung parts of the Mass in the Glory to God, the Holy, and the Mystery of Faith (formerly the Memorial Acclamation).

There is also a detailed summary of the reasons for these changes in the pamphlet rack in the vestibule of the church, and soon there will be Missal cards placed in the pews to further help us.

“And With Your Spirit”

Many times during the Mass we hear the priest greet us with the words, “the Lord be with you,” to which we now respond, “and also with you.” In the new translation the people will answer, “and with your spirit.” This new text is a literal translation of the Latin, “et cum spiritu tuo,” assuring the priest that the Lord is with his spirit as he celebrates Mass and performs the duties he was ordained to do.

As we "turn this page" in the Church's history, we must remember that the words we pray in the liturgy, many of which are from the Scriptures, are the very words of God; inviting us, healing us, enriching us and transforming us.

My Soul Thirsts For You, Lord

Last week Pittsburgh and surrounding areas had a large weather front move through our area with rains that flooded our roads and made them impassable. As I watched the deluge from my front porch, I couldn’t help but notice that the rain was not being absorbed into the ground. Instead, the earth, parched, hardened and dry from a long period of drought, resisted the water causing it to “bounce off” and run down to the sewer where it was washed away. How often we allow ourselves to “live in the desert” for long periods of time without seeking Living Water when the sacrament of penance is always available to us and offered regularly.

In the coming weeks our scriptures will speak of Christ’s mercy and forgiveness. Did you ever experience the feeling of elation upon leaving a confessional? There is a good reason for that feeling. To receive forgiveness is to obtain libation for the soul! It refreshes and cleanses us, bringing renewal. Thirsty? Immerse yourself regularly in God’s mercy and love. It is poured out for your sake. Then your soul will not grow hardened, like the parched earth which ironically repels the very refreshment it so desires. It then can absorb His Living Water, which it desperately needs to grow and thrive!

Center of My Life

This weekend we will sing “Center of My Life” at Communion time. This song, written by Paul Inwood and published by OCP Publications, reminds us to seek refuge in God, to make Him the center of our lives and to follow His ways. The composer uses verses from Psalm 16 to stress the importance of placing our hope and our trust in the Lord as well as making Him the center of our lives.

In today’s Gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells Peter, “You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church.” When we call someone our “rock,” we mean that person is a stabilizer of sorts and a foundation; a person of substance who can be counted on in any given circumstance or situation — so should the Church be our “rock” of faith and salvation. We come to this place of worship each week seeking prayer, refuge, community, peace, love and sustenance for the journey. We leave renewed, inspired, refreshed and enlightened.

I am inspired by the lyrics to the Christian song, “I Go to the Rock,” which are:

I go to the rock for my salvation,

go to the stone which the builders rejected,

go to the mountain, and the mountain stands by me.

The earth all around me is sinking sand,

on Christ the solid rock, I stand.

When I need a shelter, when I need a friend,

I go to the Rock!

May Christ continue to be our Rock, our true foundation, our only refuge.

Give Me Jesus

This past week, along with some friends, I helped to reorganize the basement of the rectory. I must confess, it began as a project to clear a path for my music files which will be moved out of the school. But it took on a new meaning, as box after box of "useless stuff" made its way to our dumpster. At first the project seemed overwhelming. But, one corner at a time, one box of rubbish at a time, we achieved the daunting task of ridding the basement of useless clutter, making the work areas there more accessible and efficient.

This weekend, we will sing, “Give Me Jesus” at Mass. Some may recognize the simple melody, as it has certainly been recorded by many artists. The message of this fervent spiritual is one of "simplicity" and "minimalism." Written most likely as a "lament," the composer‘s message is one of longing and anticipation for the true reward of eternal life.

How often we find ourselves in the midst of a shopping spree, looking for that special item or gift that will just "complete our collection." In these decadent times the message seems to be "more is better" when perhaps the message of simplicity should be our mantra. As we sing this haunting spiritual, let us lift our voices in praise of the God who wants us to "de-clutter" our lives, ridding them of all the "useless stuff" and making more room for prayer.

Ordinary Time 19

He said, “Peace, be still!”

And the winds and waves were calmed by His hand.

I found a sand dollar on the beach last week. It wasn't the usual bleached-white color we're used to seeing. Instead, it was greenish brown, and not very attractive in its natural state. Upon turning it over, I saw that it was still alive, as its tentacles shifted back and forth like the tides from which it arrived. Worried that it would die there if left exposed to the hot Florida sun, I gently returned it to the sea. As I watched it peacefully float away, seemingly undisturbed by its "near-death" experience, I contemplated the smallness of this creature, and the vastness of the ocean. It was just one of countless shells that daily washed ashore, and clearly no match for the strong tides that deposited it on the blistering hot sand. But, because of its patience, and possibly even its faith, it was rewarded a another chance to live. We, too must learn to await the hand of God through life's storms. The Lord said, “Take courage, do not fear; it is I.”

The following is a poem ("The Seashell") I wrote for a friend who celebrated a birthday this past week. So diverse are the shells, and like people, each one uniquely designed by our Creator.

I’ve always thought the seashell is like a metaphor,

And every different sandy shell that washed upon the shore,

Contained a secret chamber known only to the tide,

That holds a life that’s quite unique, living there inside!

Plants of the Bible

While away on vacation, I had the opportunity to take in the vast array of exotic vegetation that the deep South has to offer. Two such examples are the Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis), and the Strangler Fig tree (Ficus aurea). The Strangler Fig and the Banyan make their way through life in similar fashion. Seedlings embed themselves in the bark of a host tree, (I saw palm trees as being the most popular). The seeds sprout and begin their quest for nutrients and light, wrapping their roots around the host, surrounding its bark. Eventually the host tree is completely engulfed and may die. The Palm tree’s growth, however, is straight, with no side branches. It’s new growth occurs at the top, minimizing the impact of the Strangler Fig. The palm tree somehow survives the journey through life. I think we can apply this concept to our daily struggle with the stranglehold that sin can have on us. It can surround us, threatening to impede our journey to the Light. We can learn a lesson from the Palm tree and the Strangler Fig. If we continue to reach out to God, strengthening our faith through the sacraments, then we can fortify and nurture ourselves, allowing no side routes to impede our journey to the Light. We will grow sturdy, strong, and tall on our path to the Kingdom.

The Parish Musician

With Ginny Ambrose on vacation, the parish staff thought this a good opportunity to “sneak” into the music column a tribute to our dear and dedicated musician who for 37 years has served the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Thank you, Ginny for your talent, generosity and joy!

The Parish Musician

Blessed are you who sing psalms,

for you have words to call on the Lord.

Blessed are you who play instruments,

for you will hear God in gentle rubato and great sforzando.

Blessed are you who compose, for you are like the prophet,

explaining the mysteries of God.

Blessed are you who teach,

for you are passing on the prayer of music to others.

Blessed are you who practice diligently,

for you know the peace of being prepared.

Blessed are you who give up holidays and weekends for the liturgy,

for you shall inherit understanding family and friends.

Blessed are you who work for church wages,

for you will know other riches.

Blessed are you who deal with many and different

personalities in the parish and ensembles,

for you shall inherit serenity and tact.

Blessed are you who help others to mourn through funerals,

for you will inherit a great understanding of joy and hope in the resurrection.

Blessed are you who work with weddings,

for your reward will be great in heaven.

- Sunday Word for Pastoral Musicians

Ordinary Time 16

The following hymn reminds us of our constant need to sew the seeds of mercy. May it be our constant prayer.

Forgive us, Christ, the stony heart,

The callous blinded eye,

The careless deed, the heedless word,

That causes love to die.

Forgive the bitter, biting, thought,

The unforgiving mind,

The cherished memory of hurt

That makes the tongue unkind.

Forgive us when we rend anew

Your flesh once crucified

To make divided peoples one

Where, risen, you abide.

Forgive us as You once forgave

The crown, the scourge, the nails,

Though we forget Your wounded heart

Whose mercy never fails!

Biblical Flowers

Recently, my husband John and I have been doing some work on our water garden area. Our backyard houses a pond and a bog, which are connected by a small stream. Ten years ago, when the pond was dug, we thought it would be a wonderful idea to plant some cattails. What we did not know at the time was that while cattails are interesting and provide sanctuary for fish, they can prove to be quite invasive. So, after 10 years, we are faced with the task of having to replace the pond and plant a new smaller variety of cattails (dwarf variety).

In keeping with the summer theme of "biblical flowers," I thought I'd include cattails this week in this column. Known as "reeds‟ they are mentioned much in the Bible -- “...its canals will become foul, and the branches of Egypt’s Nile will diminish and dry up, reeds {cattails} and rushes will rot away” (Isaiah 19:6).

Cattails are found along highways, in marshes and bogs, and spread by way of rhizomes (like roots) beneath the muddy surface. "Flowers‟ develop beneath leafy sheaths, which eventually peel off in spring, revealing the brown part most of us are used to seeing. It is this brown part which contains many seeds, and give the plant its interesting shape. Dwarf cattails can be an interesting addition to a biblical water garden!

Biblical Gardens

During this season of summer, I’ve decided to suspend writing about music, and devote this column to writing about one of my other favorite subjects -- flowers. I’ve visited many beautiful cottage gardens as well as formal gardens, but none proved as interesting as a trip to the Biblical Botanical Garden in Pittsburgh’s Oakland area. There, tucked among the trees adjacent to the Rodef Shalom Synagogue on Fifth Avenue, is one of the most complete biblical botanical gardens I’ve ever seen.

Established in 1987, there are over 100 plants - all labeled with their biblical references as well as their botanical names. There are fig trees, olive trees, and cedar trees, as well as a cherished Frankinsence plant brought over from the Holy Land.

The Frankincense plant (Boswellia sacra) is quite rare here, and difficult to grow. Frankincense is obtained by cutting into the bark of the tree. The tree sap oozes out and hardens. It is that hardened resin that is the frankincense, famous for its healing properties. Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were among the gifts to Jesus by the Magi "from out of the East" (Matthew 2:10).

The Biblical Botanical Garden isopen to the public Sunday through Thursday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Tours are offered the first Wednesday of the month at 12:15 PM. No reservations are required.

Eucharistic Hymns

Throughout time, there have been many hymns written in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. One hymn that is near and dear to our hearts is “Jesus My Lord, My God, My All” by Frederick W. Faber (1814-1863), which we will sing at Communion this weekend. Many of us first learned this beloved hymn when we were preparing for our first Eucharist. Most can remember its refrain easily: “O Living Bread, we Thee adore, O make us love Thee more and more. O make us love Thee, more and more.”

In 1951, J. Fischer & Bro. published “The Parochial Hymnal," a compilation by St. Paul Cathedral organist and choirmaster, Rev. Carlo Rossini. This hymnal, with Imprimatur, (authorization), by Bishop Hugh C. Boyle, found its way into most churches in the Pittsburgh area. I found quite a few treasured hymns inside, such as, “O Bread of Heaven” and “O Lord, I Am Not Worthy,” of which I remember singing while kneeling at the Communion rail awaiting my first Eucharist. These treasured hymns were melodic, easy to sing, and most importantly, written with reverence.

This weekend we celebrate the Feast of Corpus Christi, or The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. The following is a Novena which is prayed for nine consecutive days following Corpus Christi:

O Lord Jesus Christ, You who have given us Your precious Body and Blood to be our meat and drink, grant that through frequent reception of You in the Holy Eucharist, I may be strengthened in mind and body to do Your holy will. Amen. Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, have mercy on us.

The Other Shore

(Dedicated to all who attended St. Joseph School)

There’s a place beyond a hill,
It’s a place where time is still.
There we dream, but part no more,
When we reach the other shore.

There’s a time to give your heart,
There’s a time when all must part.
As we reap, there we shall sow,
And so the time for letting go.

Love waits there - the other side,
To meet your light as you arrive.
With open arms to take you in.
Here we end, there we begin!

You must go and I must stay.
Set your course and sail away.
Send a smile across the tide,
When you reach the other side!

Cast your journey toward the sun.
A brand new day has now begun.
Wave to me as you depart,
I’ll keep you safe within my heart.

We cannot hold the hands of time.
They are not yours, they are not mine!
Dwell not on pages left unread,
Or count the words we left un-said.

Count the laughter, not the tears.
Count the moments, not the years.
There’s a time to part no more,
When we reach the other shore.
I’ll meet you on the other shore.

Veni Sancte Spiritus!

Have you ever:

Felt a sudden burst of happiness?

Had a surge of unexpected energy?

Gotten excited about a project?

Written a story, a poem, a song?

Drawn, painted, sculpted?

Smiled at the sunrise?

Stayed up to watch the moon?

Washed your car even though it was clean?

Organized a desk, closet, drawer, or all three?

Written a letter for no reason?

Sent a card to someone for no reason?

Planted a garden?

Told a joke?

If you can answer “Yes” to any of these examples, you may very well have been inspired by the Holy Spirit! (Even using an exclamation point at the end of a sentence counts as inspiration!)

The Holy Spirit manifests Himself in many ways - creatively, prayerfully, and quite unexpectedly at times. We must recognize the Spirit's call and heed it. It could be something as simple as finding joy in walking your dog, or watering a plant. Whatever the gift, whatever the call, we must be open, and accepting.

The Holy Spirit will be calling you soon. Will you answer?

With a Song in Our Hearts

As we say “good-bye” to our school this month, I would like to take an opportunity to thank those students and parents who generously gave their time to make our Choristers and Teen Ministry Choir a success.

We’ve all heard the saying, “When you sing, you pray twice.” If that’s the case, then I can only imagine heaven's delight at the sound that emanates from the choir loft during Mass.

Your ministry of song brings joy, spirit, prayer, and praise to our pews. The faithful are brought to a deeper sense of prayer through your joy-filled voices.

The Teen Ministry Choir sang for the final time this season last Sunday at the Noon Mass. The new season will begin in September. Any student in grades 8-12 are welcome to join.

The Choristers season comes to an end this week. When we resume in September, there will be some changes to our schedule. We will rehearse one Saturday per month at 2:30 PM and will sing on that same Saturday at the 4:00 PM Vigil Mass. Any student in grades 3-8 are welcome to join us,

regardless of the school you attend.

I am hopeful that this wonderful ministry of song will continue at St. Joseph Parish. I wish all the students the best of luck. My prayer for you is that you leave with a song in your hearts!

My Garden

For those of us who enjoy gardening, this time of year is always a busy time. Things are blooming, and the recent rain brought an abundance of weeds. Like our gardens, we must remember to extract from our lives that which is not beautiful or healthy to the growth of life. Sin, like a weed, will choke out the strongest of flowers, making them unhealthy and weak. I love the newness that Spring brings to my yard, and at times I am so inspired by God‘s gifts, that I will occasionally write about them. The following is a short poem that I wrote last year while sitting among my flowers in the early morning hours of dawn. I hope it inspires you to enjoy the beauty of God‘s creation.

My Garden

My garden isn’t perfect, but you must understand

that every flower that you behold

was planted there by hand.

There’s trees and shrubs, and bulbs and things,

and weeds of every kind,

and some I do not recognize that some bird left behind!

To watch the busy hummingbird that lands to take a drink -

It’s wings a-flutter as it tastes the honeysuckle pink,

is time well spent, as moments spare

the watcher from his task,

for every moment spent therein, is a moment spent relaxed!

I could not see a flower, and not bend in to smell

the fragrance of the heavens - here, God does surely dwell!

I ponder all the sacred gifts the Master gave to share.

How truly sad the world would be, if flowers were not there!

“Are Those Bells I Hear?”

Last weekend a family came up to the choir loft to show their little girl the organ. I could see the excitement in her eyes as she sat at the console and looked at all the tabs and buttons in front of her. It is for that reason that I decided to write about the organ this week. The Holtkamp Organ was installed some time in 1949-1950 as a 10 rank (set of pipes) instrument. Originally, the organ did sit in the loft, but was brought down to the sanctuary in 1985. In 1992, the organ was restored again, adding electric wind chests. The Harry Ebert Organ Co. completed the work on the new console, and restored the “Zimblestern," which in German literally means “Cymbal Star” and consists of a metal or wooden star or wheel on which several small bells are mounted. When the wheel rotates, the bells create a constant "tinkling sound." Most often, this sound is used for celebratory music such as the Gloria, the opening and closing hymns at Mass, or to announce the bride as she begins her walk down the aisle at weddings.

The organ that you presently hear underwent a major restoration in 2006, in preparation for its move from the sanctuary back to the choir loft. New ranks were added to complete what now is a grand instrument with 17 ranks of pipes. So, the next time you think you hear bells, just remember -- it‘s just the organ!

Gift of Finest Wheat

”As when the shepherd calls his sheep, they know and heed his voice; So when you call your family Lord, we follow and rejoice.”

“Gift of Finest Wheat” has become a staple at Masses in churches all over the world. Written by Robert E. Kreutz (1922-1996), it was first performed at the International Eucharistic Congress in 1976, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. There is hardly a church congregation that is not familiar with its melodic passages. This weekend we celebrate “Good Shepherd Sunday."

On this World Day of Prayer for Vocations, we are asked to pray for more vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life. Without priests, there is no Eucharist. Each day a priest is asked to be present in prayer and in person to many. We must always remember to pray for them, and to support them. It is from their hands that we receive the Bread of Life! May Mary, Queen of the Clergy, obtain for us many holy priests.

Ave Maria

Throughout May you will hear prelude music dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Truly, one of the most beautiful and prayerful compositions ever written is the beloved "Ave Maria." Most of us are familiar with the melody by Franz Schubert (1825). Anyone who has ever attended a wedding in the Catholic Church has heard it played as the bride places a flower at the Mary altar. What most of us probably don‘t know, is that the melody was originally written to accompany lyrics to Sir Walter Scott‘s (1797-1828) poem, "The Lady of the Lake." The poem was then translated into German, and the "Ave Maria" prayer used. Its accompaniment is written in "triplets" with melody written to follow a straight "4" meter. The vocalist who sings it must have good lung capacity to sustain its long phrases and passages.

The Bach/Guonod version of “Ave Maria” began as two separate songs. In 1722 Johann Sebastian Bach wrote the music for "Prelude No. 1" in C Major, from "The Well Tempered Clavier." 137 years later, Charles Guonod, a French composer, wrote the melody we know as the "Ave Maria" over Bach‘s original composition. The two songs compliment each other perfectly and beautifully. This version of the "Ave Maria" contains the entire prayer sung through the song, unlike Schubert‘s version, where both verses must be sung in order to hear the second verse of the prayer.

Divine Mercy Sunday

We Walk By Faith

Last Saturday, my grandson, Caleb, took his first steps and I was lucky enough to be there to witness it. Caleb is almost 11 months old, and full of energy, but that morning he seemed more lively than usual. And then, it happened. He was leaning on his little walker, then turned, stretched out his arms, opening his mouth into his signature wide grin, and wobbled toward his mother. As she stretched out her own arms to grab him, I noticed that he never once took his eyes off of her. Laughing and staggering on his unsteady legs, he was determined to get to the other side of our living room into his mom's loving embrace. With a look of unabashed pride on his face, he clapped his hands in glee as we all shouted, “Yay!” Caleb knew he had done something very special that day. We knew that his trust, his determination, and his resolve got him to the other side of the living room.

This weekend, we celebrate “Divine Mercy Sunday." We sing, “We Walk By Faith” by Marty Haugen. As we hear the familiar story of "doubting Thomas,” we consider our own inability to see with eyes of faith, hope, and trust. We wobble through life, stumbling, as we strive to live lives worthy of Christ's mercy. But, placing our hope in the Resurrection, we must learn to walk with faith, all the way to our Father in heaven, remembering that, like a parent, He is waiting to catch us, with arms outstretched and eyes full of love, compassion, and mercy if we fall.

Easter Sunday

Fire and Water

These symbols of our faith are never more important than during this season of joy. Christ has overcome death and darkness. The tomb is empty - He has risen! We watch as the new fire is lit in our courtyard. The procession into church begins with “Christ, our light, thanks be to God!” The “Exsultet” - The Easter Proclamation - is sung then, with its haunting chant, its jubilant praise, its symbolism of old.

Today there are many sung texts of “The Exsultet," from the chant in the Sacramentary (the priest's book of prayers) to modern versions that invite participation from the congregation. For three years, we've used Dan Schutte's “Most Holy Night," sung by priest, cantor, choir, and congregation. This prayer of praise invites us - heaven and earth - to rejoice in this "Passover feast of God." It ends with an offering of the flame - the Easter Candle, "Accept from us this Easter flame that joins with all the stars of night, to guide the journey of our feet and lead us with its light!"

The Easter candle will soon be dipped into the water, blessing it, and uniting water and fire to give us the "Water of Life." We renew our baptismal promises, and come forward to dip our fingers in this new water. Christ has made all things new! We accept the invitation to rejoice and sing, “He is risen! Alleluia!”

Palm Sunday

The Sacred Triduum

The liturgies of the Triduum are the most solemn of the liturgical year. As Holy Week progresses, we notice an increase in the sacredness of the musical repertoire and style. All of the "old hymns‟ return - “All Glory Laud and Honor,” “Were You There,” “O Sacred Head Surrounded,” “Ubi Caritas,” and “Pange Lingua.” In a sense, the Triduum is a culmination of what we have longed for, worked toward, and hopefully are waiting for after the long sacrificial time of Lent. We longingly await our “alleluias” and the singing of the “Gloria” which returns this week.

On Holy Thursday we witness Christ's humility and love as we watch our celebrant stoop to wash the feet of those he serves. Christ, the humble servant is represented in a noticeable way right in front of our eyes - the Word made manifest.

On Good Friday our worship and music take on a more somber feel as we listen to the Passion reading. We venerate the Cross -- the symbol of our faith -- while the lamentations are sung by the choir in the songs, “All You Who Pass This Way” and “Behold the Savior”

The Easter Vigil, with its rich symbolism and ritual, emerges victorious from a week full of prayer and solemnity. As water and fire mingle in our vigil rites, we close with a resounding “Alleluia, Christ is victorious!”

Lent 5

“...and I will raise you up on the last day.”

These lyrics are familiar to anyone who has ever celebrated a liturgy in the Catholic Church. Suzanne Toolan, RSM, is an internationally known composer of liturgical music. Her communion song, “I Am the Bread of Life” has been translated into more than 20 languages. At the age of 84, she continues to compose music for Catholic repertory. Her music is timeless, prayerful, and full of her own enthusiastic spirit. I am sure we will continue to sing her music in our churches for years to come.

I chose “I Am the Bread of Life” for our communion hymn this weekend because of its obvious reference to the resurrection on the final day of glory. In today's Gospel, we hear John's recounting of Lazarus' rising from the dead. This "miracle of miracles,‟ so impossible for us to grasp intellectually, but if seen through eyes of faith, is the miracle that we base our faith on. And Jesus’ dying and rising from the grave is the reason to wake up each morning! Even the darkness of the grave cannot spell death if our hope is in the Resurrection. Our lives are but a moment in time - a blink of an eye - a turn of a season. But life eternal is our hope. Let us sing this hymn with energy and faith this weekend, remembering our own eternal life in God! “… If you believe in me, even though you die, you shall live forever.”

Lent 4

To be born visually impaired is something most of us would consider a horrible thing. To lose one‘s sight after having experienced the beauty that surrounds us is even more of a loss. My own mother, an avid reader and quilter, suffered from Macular Degeneration for 5 years before she died. I remember when she received her diagnosis. She called me and told me that she was going to study my face and that of her grandchildren so hard that she would never forget what we looked like once her sight was gone. I recall her sadness once she could no longer quilt or read. I treasure the final quilt that she made with her arthritic hands, and I trace my hands across the crooked stitches from time to time imagining what it must have been like for her to experience a loss of sight and independence.

Physical sight is something we treasure. It should not taken for granted. But the ability to "see" with eyes of faith is a gift we can only hope for. When the "film" of sin is removed from our sight, only then can we "see" our true selves - that which the Father in heaven sees. Sometimes we must lose something in order to gain new "insight" into another way of thinking or looking at a situation. For only through loss can rebirth be achieved. The song, "Amazing Grace" by John Newton 1779), captures the sentiment perfectly. “I once was lost, but now am found; was blind, but now I see.”

Lent 3

Come To The Water

If you knew of a drink that would bring you hope, joy, heal all your ills, give you wisdom, make you strong, alive, and renewed each time you drank it, had no calories, and here’s the best part - was free - wouldn’t you run to the store this very moment to find this drink?

As babies, it is said that our bodies are made up of about 75% water, as adults, about 60%. The human brain is mostly water and the world is, too. If we exercise, we must replenish our bodies with it. Most vacations we take center around it. The bulk of the population in our country lives near a coast line. It seems that we are always searching to quench our dryness - to satisfy a thirst. But, like a sieve, our earthly body is a never-full, never-satisfied vessel. No matter how much we drink, we can never get enough liquid to satiate our thirst. Earthly water just doesn’t fill us up!

God invites us to the well-spring of eternal life each week. He beckons, pleads and offers us Living Water through His Word, His Body and His Blood. How can we ignore the invitation? The lyrics to Marsha Stevens’ song, sung at the 12:00 Noon Mass on Sunday, "For Those Tears I Died," inspire thought: “Come to the water, stand by my side. I know you are thirsty, you won’t be denied. I felt every tear drop when in darkness you cried, and I strove to remind you that for those tears I died!”

Lent 2

Richard Proulx, Composer (1937-2010)

Lent brings with it a time of renewal and change. And so it is also true with the music at our liturgies during this time. We change from a style of song that is celebratory in nature to music that is somewhat pensive, meditative, and perhaps more contemplative. The imagery portrayed in the lyrics of our song invokes thought, sacrifice, and ultimately, prayer. The Gospel Acclamation, Holy, Eucharistic Acclamation, Great Amen, and the Litany at the Breaking of the Bread, also change during this season of reflection and renewal. During Lent we sing Mass parts from “A Community Mass” by Richard Proulx. This Mass was written in the early years following Vatican II. Its popularity has stood the test of time, and is a staple in many parishes. I had the opportunity to sing under the direction of Richard Proulx in the early 1990‟s when he was a guest conductor for the Diocesan Choir's annual Hymnfest at Sacred Heart Church in Shadyside. Mr. Proulx "pulled no punches‟ with our choir, as he demanded perfection from our tempos, our tone, and even our breathing Sadly, Richard Proulx passed away in 2010, but leaves behind a legacy of over 300 compositions. His music is both traditional and timeless.

Ordinary Time 9

“I don’t feel I have a good enough voice to sing in church.”

This is a comment I hear quite often, and every time I hear it I cringe. There is nothing more beautiful than the sound of an entire congregation singing from the bottom of their hearts and the top of their lungs! No matter what kind of voice you have, it is always a voice the Lord wants to hear. From where I sit at the organ, it is sometimes difficult for me to hear resounding music coming from the mouths of our congregation, and I must admit, I long for more. On this last weekend of Ordinary Time, we will sing the “Alleluia” as the Gospel Acclamation once more before moving on to the acclamations of Lent. With this in mind, I decided to print a "challenge" of sorts in this blog post. I challenge everyone in attendance at Mass this weekend to sing the Gospel Acclamation, (Alleluia), the Holy Holy and the Opening and Closing Hymns like you’ve never sung them before - that is, with brave gusto! These parts of the Mass are typically sung strongly and with conviction. Below are some quotes I found that give you reason to sing with your whole heart.

“A bird doesn’t sing because it has an answer, it sings because it has a song.”

- Maya Angelou

“Some days there won’t be a song in your heart. Sing anyway!”

- Emory Austin

“Sing loudly in church with your head held high - especially if it embarrasses your children.”

- Ginny Ambrose

Ordinary Time 8

“I will never forget you, my people. I have carved you on the palm of my hand…”


These tender words are echoed in the song, “Isaiah 49” written by Carey Landry © 1979 OCP. We will sing this as a meditation hymn at the 10:00 AM Mass on Sunday. The tender melody provides a peaceful backdrop to the lyrics, written in classic melodic style.

In our first reading the Prophet Isaiah writes, “Can a mother forget her infant, be without the tenderness for the child of her womb?” The question is asked not to call to mind the neglect of a parent, but to remind us that even the greatest and most tender love that a mother has for her children could never compare to the unconditional love our Father in heaven has for us. He has set us as a "mark" and a "seal" upon his heart. He is ever mindful of us. He is ever watchful of us.

Psalm 139 reminds us that even before we were born, while still in our mother’s womb, God knew every secret we would tell, every song we would sing, every tear we would cry, every person we would embrace. With our Father watching over us, why should we worry? We sing it, and we must believe it and live it! For He says, “Even if these forget, I will never forget my own!”

Wedding Music Workshop

Click on the picture above for more information about our Wedding Music Workshop!

Ordinary Time 6

“I have loved you with an everlasting love, I have called you and you are mine.”

The lyrics are from the song, “I Have Loved You," by Michael Joncas for Oregon Catholic Press, © 1979. We will sing this song at Communion this weekend. Rev. Michael Joncas is known as a liturgical composer, author, and professor. He is probably best known for his beautifully written composition, “On Eagle‟s Wings."

In 1985 I attended the Eighth Annual Convention of the National Association of Pastoral Musicians in Cincinnati, OH. On Wednesday evening of that week there was a concert, “The Cry of the Poor," given to benefit Catholic Relief Services' work with the famine in Africa. Rev. Michael Joncas spoke that evening about love, compassion and his own motivation to aid in CRS's life-saving works of mercy. That night, in the Cincinnati Convention Center, together with composers and thousands of pastoral musicians, we recorded the album, “The Cry of the Poor." It showcased many songs that were just beginning to be sung at Mass, such as “Be Not Afraid," “Change Our Hearts,” and “On Eagle‟s Wings." To record a song with its composer present is a privilege and an experience one never forgets. This week, as we sing, “I Have Loved You,” let us remember the message of God‟s love for His people that Fr. Joncas portrayed so beautifully.

Ordinary Time 5

“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

For the next few weeks, we'll hear Matthew's Gospel as he describes Jesus as "teacher" in the "Sermon on the Mount.‟ The above lyrics to the song, “Thy Word” by recording artist, Amy Grant describe Jesus‟ words as essential tools for life. “When I feel afraid, think I’ve lost my way, still you’re there right beside me! Nothing will I fear as long as you are near. You are near me to the end!” This song is a favorite of The Choristers, who will sing it at the 10:00 AM Mass on Sunday morning. Most of us leave a lamp lit in the window upon leaving our homes. It is a comforting sight as we return home to an otherwise dark house. Neighbors see the lamp and assume we‟re at home. There is "life‟ in the house! So it is with our very souls. To "light the lamp‟ of our souls is to shine God‟s light on a world enveloped in the darkness of sin and apathy. Others experience the good, and pass it on. A small act of kindness may be simply to hold open an elevator door when we‟re really in a hurry, or even to allow someone to merge into our lane on Interstate 79! Through our own baptism, we are called to be "salt of the earth." If we think about the uses of salt, we are reminded that it is a preservative and a flavor enhancer. Jesus tells us to "make better‟ the lives of others, to "preserve‟ them from going bad. To fail to do this is to become like a hidden lamp or tasteless salt. And like our lamps that shine from our windows to the street, may our lights shine on the paths of others to light their way to Christ!

Ordinary Time 4

On Monday, January 17, I attended a retreat with fellow Pastoral Musicians at St. Thomas More Parish in Bethel Park. The retreat was led by Fr. Paul Colloton, OP. The focus was to pray, learn, discuss and sing about the upcoming changes to the Roman Missal. On March 25, 2010, the text of the English translation of the Roman Missal, third edition was approved by the Vatican. Those changes will go into effect on the First Sunday of Advent, November 27, 2011. In the coming months, I will devote this column to news and information about the changes to come our way.

The Roman Missal is the book containing the prescribed prayers, chants, and instructions for the celebration of the Mass in the Roman Catholic Church. Since 1604, there have been new editions of the Missale Romanum promulgated by Popes for use in the Church, with the most recent being in 2002 by Pope John Paul II.

In the summer months we will begin to learn the new sung text for the Glory to God, the Holy, and the Mystery of Faith formerly known as the Memorial Acclamation. Special cards will soon be placed in our pews to help us through the change. For more information, or to view the changes now, visit the Roman Missal page by the USCCB's Committee on Divine Worship.

I thought the following quote by Prince Phillip of England might be timely to post: “Change does not change tradition, it strengthens it. Change is a challenge and an opportunity; not a threat.”

Ordinary Time 3

I recall a homily given by a priest of my home parish of Immaculate Conception in Bloomfield, during a Mass for our school students. The priest stood at the ambo and held a big net in his hands. He never said a word, as he held the net in the air and smiled. The students were puzzled by this, as he then asked the students what they thought the net was for. His query received curious replies which ranged from “I saw something like that at the pool last summer,” to one child’s humorous reply of, “Father, will you take us fishing the way Father Dom used to?” Needless to say, the comments brought forth chuckles from the older members of the congregation who were present at Mass. The priest was successful with his message. The net he wielded was used to "catch something." The imagery worked.

During Communion this week, we will sing my favorite song, “Lord, you Have Come." In today’s Gospel, we hear about Jesus calling forth his disciples in a way that is both loving and commanding at the same time. In what way has Jesus called us? “All I longed for I have found by the water, at your side, I will seek other shores.” If we believe that we are followers of Christ, then we must also believe that we have been called in some capacity to truly leave our "nets" and follow him. Jesus beckons his followers to "Come after me." Do we emulate that Call within our lives? Based on our own example of faith, would we inspire others to follow Christ as well?

Ordinary Time 2

Here I am, Lord. I've come to do your will.

The words to Psalm 40 are simple but direct. God calls us all. How we respond is up to us. Do we hear His voice? Do we listen for His call? Do we allow silence to fill our being so as to provide a place of tranquility to allow the Holy Spirit to speak to us and dwell there? God’s will is sometimes unclear, but if we see through eyes of faith, we realize the true calling God has set forth. How will we heed the Call? We must remember that we are His servants and we are called to serve others in His name.

The song, “Here I Am, Lord” by Dan Schutte which we will sing during the offering of the gifts at Mass this week, speaks of God’s calling and our own reply of faithful servitude. “Who will bear my light to them?” Who is the "them" the composer speaks of? Is it our brother, sister or even our children who have been lukewarm in the faith? Is it the stranger that we see each morning at the bus stop? Is it the bank teller or the person who hands us our coffee at the McDonald’s drive-thru window? Will we heed His call to serve "them?" Have we heard God calling in the night? In the "night of our soul," the "darkness of our despair," the "winter of our being," do we listen for God’s call? And if we hear Him, will we heed His call to serve?

Baptism of the Lord

Although it may not feel like Christmas to us anymore, on this day, we celebrate the Savior's Baptism - a great Feast within the Christmas season. Our Gospel acclamation, in keeping with the season, is from Fr. James Chepponis' “Alleluia for Christmastime,” as we conclude this holy season of the year.

“O let all who thirst, let them come to the water. And let all who have nothing, let them come to the Lord: without money, without price. Why should you pay the price, except for the Lord?”

These lyrics make up the first verse of today's Communion Hymn, “Come to the Water" by John Foley, SJ. The song is a favorite of mine, as it speaks to anyone in need of spiritual refreshment. It calls all to come to the Lord in your need and He will fulfill those needs!

In this week's Gospel, Jesus comes to be baptized at the Jordan. Baptism marks the beginning of our life in Christ as believers. In order for those seeds of faith to take root and grow, we must remember to keep faithful to our own baptismal promises until the end of our days. They must be continually nourished by the Holy Spirit.