Office of Sacred Music

"The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred melody united to words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn Liturgy"

- Sacrosanctum Concilium (1963)

The mission of the Office of Sacred Music of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Saint Louis is the advancement and promotion of the finest in Sacred Music in the parishes and apostolates of the Archdiocese, in keeping with the norms established by competent ecclesiastical authority.

Serves as the primary resource to Archdiocesan parishes in the establishment and development of their programs of sacred music.
Sponsors the Archdiocesan Adult Choir, Handbell Choir and Children’s Choir. Membership is by audition. The choirs include singers and ringers from parishes throughout the eleven counties of the Archdiocese. The choirs participate in the major Episcopal Ceremonies of the Archdiocese, including the Installation of The Most Rev. Robert J. Carlson, as Metropolitan Archbishop of Saint Louis.

Maintains files of available substitute musicians, employment opportunities and resumés of those looking for employment.
In collaboration with the Office of Sacred Worship, presents the biannual "Gateway Liturgical Conference.”
Serves as the primary musical resource to the parishes, offices and agencies of the Archdiocese.

In cooperation with the Office of Sacred Worship, plans and prepares music for all Archdiocesan Liturgies (at the Cathedral Basilica and elsewhere).
Plans and prepares all extraordinary Archdiocesan Liturgies (Papal visit, Eucharistic Congress, Episcopal Ordinations, Chaifetz Arena Mass with Fr. Corapi, etc.).
Sponsors Archdiocesan workshops for Choir Directors, Organists, Cantors, and Choir Members.
Publishes “The Archdiocesan Musician.”
Sponsors the annual Musicians’ Convocation.
Sponsors the Archdiocesan Music Commission.
Serves as a the primary resource for Archdiocesan parishes seeking a new parish musician (including the definition of contracts and salaries).
Serves as a the primary resource for Archdiocesan parishes building or revising their music space.
Serves as a the primary resource for Archdiocesan parishes seeking a new parish instrument (including purchasing, installation, and refurbishing).
Sponsors the Archdiocesan Certificate in Liturgy and Music.
In cooperation with Aquinas Institute, Sponsors the Masters In Sacred Music Degree.
Collaborates with the Saint Louis Chapter of the National Association of Pastoral Musicians to present programs, guest speakers and music reading sessions.