A Cantor is an experienced singer who, while remaining a part of the congregation, leads the people's singing of the liturgy - that is, the formal, public worship of God. The cantor is not a soloist, but sings with the congregation, enabling the people to sing together by presenting psalms, hymns, and other liturgical music with a clear voice at a reasonable tempo.
Experienced singers discerning a call to this important ministry should, first and foremost, be people of prayer. The ministry of cantor is a gift and call of the Spirit and requires a combination of unique qualities, such as: general musical and vocal skills, devotion to and knowledge of Scripture, commitment to punctuality, and knowledge of liturgical services.
Volunteers interested in auditioning to serve on our cantor rotation should fill out the interest form by clicking the button below.
Each week, cantors are needed at the following mass times and locations:
Saturday Vigils
4:00 p.m. St. Alphonsus
5:00 p.m. St. James
5:30 p.m. St. George
Sunday Mass
8:00 a.m. St. James
9:00 a.m. St. George
10:00 a.m. St. James
10:30 a.m. St. Alphonsus
11:00 a.m. St. George
Cantors may indicate which masses they are available to cantor, how often they would like to be scheduled, and dates that they will be unavailable.
Resources
Each cantor is supplied with access to Ministry Scheduler Pro (our parish volunteer management program), which contains weekly hymn selections, contact information, and personal profile.
Additionally, each cantor receives a St. Augustine Hymnal, Respond and Acclaim, and copies of mass settings used for the Mass Ordinary. Training modules are provided to support cantors in developing their skills and preparing for upcoming liturgical season.