Between the Hearts with Fr. Craig

Note Regarding Sacred Heart Music Ministry:

I would like to provide you with an update regarding the transition currently taking place within our music ministry. We are actively searching for a full-time music minister and have already interviewed a number of candidates. Our goal is to find the right person to serve the parish at most of our liturgies, including school Mass, funerals, and other celebrations throughout the life of our parish. 

As we move forward, the overall character of our music will not significantly change. There is no major shift planned. Many of the familiar songs that you love will continue to be played and sung. In fact, I am very fond of much of the music in the dark-red Gather Hymnal as it feels like home to me. Many of those songs hold a special place in my heart. At the same time, we hope to broaden our musical repertoire by incorporating other worthy and beautiful sacred music and instruments that give praise and glory to God. As one who loves music, I love all types of music, no matter what category one may place them in.

I understand that during this time of transition there are naturally questions about what has taken place in the recent past. Out of respect for the dignity and privacy of those involved, however, I am not going into greater detail, except that my vision has not changed from what I explained above. Rumors of me only wanting organ and traditional music is simply false. 

Until a new music minister is found, we will continue to rely upon substitute musicians from week to week. I recognize that this is not ideal and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work toward providing our parish with a stable and vibrant music ministry once again. Choir, bell choir, cantors, and all the rest will resume when the new director is found. 

Above all, I ask that we all approach this transition in a spirit of prayer and with the Charity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. May the bond of charity always prevail and may we continue to treat one another with the respect and dignity owed to our brothers and sisters in Christ. Please keep our music ministry in your prayers, especially that the Lord will lead the right person to our parish. 

To those at St. Kateri:

Kevin will continue to be our music minister at St. Kateri. He has been generous in helping us out at Sacred Heart when he is available. You may notice too that he is playing at daily Mass as well. Please continue to pray for both of our parishes that they have a spirit of unity and peace. St. Cecilia, patron saint of musicians, pray for us!

In Christ,

Fr. Craig