During the month of September, the choir will meet twice for rehearsal on Thursday evening from 7pm9pm. Rehearsals are September 5th (this past week), and September 19th. These rehearsals prepare the choir to once again gather as a group and prepare for active ministry beginning in October. Please consider offering your time and talent to this important and very active ministry at Blessed Sacrament.

I was recently reminded that several “days of note” happen this week. In particular, we celebrate Patriot’s Day, also known as a pair of numbers that will never be the same for us in this country-9/11. I was not yet a member of the parish staff at this time last year, so it begs the question, “What are the needs of this particular community?” In preparing music for this Sunday, one theme is evident. Jesus teaches his followers the hard lesson of the cross- proper planning, knowing what changes may need to happen, making careful decisions, and completing the work. We have furthered that theme from the very beginning this week with “Lift High the Cross” as our Entrance Chant. At the same time, I cannot help but also address what I think the needs of the people of this parish might be as we enter the week. Healing? Hope? I think it’s safe to say that in several ways September 11th means something completely different to you here in New York than it did for me in the Midwest. As we pay tribute to the fallen this Patriot’s Day, healing and hope are universal needs for all of us. I think that the words to both our hymn at the Presentation of Gifts, and our Sending Forth Hymn will aid us in this regard. May we “Lift High the Cross” and pray for peace, healing, and hope through the words of our sung prayer this weekend. 

As we answer God’s call of service to one another and our parish community, please take a moment to review the specifics of our Parish Music Program and consider the offering of time and talent to the glory of God through sung prayer.

FESTIVAL CHOIR (high school- adults)
The Festival Choir serves our English-speaking community,  and  sings  for Sunday Mass at 12:10pm with warm up at 11:30am.  The ability to read music is helpful but not required. Choir members must possess a sense of pitch, a love of singing, an appreciation for music of various styles and genres, and a commitment to our weekly rehearsals for a full choral season.  
Training Needed: Will be provided
Time Commitment: choir rehearsal each Thursday evening from 7-9pm. Additional rehearsals will be scheduled for Christmas, Easter, and other special choral liturgies thought the season. 
Duration of Commitment: One year (choir season September- early June)
 
CANTOR PROGRAM
Ministry Goal: To act as leader of sung prayer at liturgical functions.
Age: High school age or older.(exceptions made based on musical ability and development)
Training Needed: Must possess a pleasant voice and sense of pitch; some previous experience and musical background preferred, but not necessary. 
Time Commitment: Minimum of one Eucharistic Celebration per month;  private rehearsal with the music director for proper preparation and training. 
Duration of Commitment: One year at a time with reliability being a must.
Contact:  Director of Music   music.blessedsacramentnr@gmail.com