Music plays a great role in the liturgy of the Church, as it has the capacity to transcend words in the ability to convey divine truths, the grandeur of God and our human thirst to be in relationship with God. St. Paul advised the Christian community in his letter to the Colossians: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, as in all wisdom you teach and admonish one another, singing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God." (Col. 3:16) This is also our calling. This is the calling of every member of the worshiping assembly.
Here at Ascension Catholic Church, we believe with St. Augustine that "He who sings prays twice." Our whole music ministry is undertaken with an understanding of the importance for each of the baptized to be an engaged participant in the prayers, rituals and music of the Church. As the Second Vatican Council so eloquently taught: "The full and active participation by all the people is the aim to be considered before all else, for it is the primary and indispensable source from which the faithful are to drive the true Christian spirit." (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, no. 13.) At the celebration of the Holy Eucharist each of us is called (and in a sense, obligated) to participate through the sung and spoken word. Just as it takes many small pieces of diverse glass to make up a beautiful stained-glass window, so too does it take the voices of the entire assembly, people and priest, to make a beautiful offering of praise to our loving God.
Accompanists accompany vocalists on organ, piano or guitar during Mass or other special liturgies. Accompanists are scheduled on a monthly basis, based on their preferences and availabilities.
Cantors/vocalists lead the congregational singing during Mass and other special liturgies. Cantors/vocalists can sing individually or within a small group. Cantors/vocalists are scheduled on a monthly basis, based on their preference and availabilities.
Instrumentalists play alongside cantors, small groups or choirs.