“The Liturgy is a reflection of Heaven.”
Cardinal Robert Sarah
Liturgical Music
The Catholic Center at UGA is committed to fostering excellence in congregational song and prayer. The Fathers of the Second Vatican Council hailed the Church’s rich tradition of Sacred Music as “a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art.” The Church states that music is not merely an ornament or nicety but “a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy.” Because the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is intended to be a foretaste of the Heavenly Banquet, it is essential that the quality of our sacred music reflect the beauty of the Eternal.
Cantors
For those competent in their knowledge of music who are able to assume individual responsibility for leading the congregation in song and proclaiming the Word of God as a psalmist. An audition is required.
Musicians
For those proficient in a musical instrument who can accompany liturgical celebrations. Music is provided. If you are so gifted, please share your gift!
An audition is required.
Pianist & Organist
Experienced pianists and organists are always welcome! An audition is required.
Choral Members
Those who can learn songs by reading music or hearing it in rehearsals. Experience singing with a group (not necessarily a choir) is desired but not required. Many good choir members are people with no formal musical training or experience, but they have belief in their own ability and the desire to learn choir skills.
Liturgical Servers
The Catholic Center has a variety of Liturgical Ministries to serve in the Sacred Liturgy (Mass). They include the following:
Mass Coordinators
The Mass Coordinator is the “behind the scenes” preparation person at the Mass. The role of the Mass Coordinator is to coordinate various Liturgical ministries and setup for Mass at the time of the Sacred Liturgy.
The Mass Coordinator is responsible for Mass set-up and helping with cleanup after Mass along with the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and the ushers. The Mass Coordinator should confirm that all is ready for the Mass, even if it appears that someone has already done so. They make sure that the Liturgical ministers (acolytes, lectors, ushers, greeters, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion) are present and ready to serve for the Mass and recruit replacement ministers if needed.
During a special Liturgical celebration, the Mass Coordinator may have to assist with various tasks (e.g., Baptism, procession, washing of feet, etc.). Please note: For special liturgies, the DLM will inform and coordinate with the Mass Coordinator to ensure all is in order.
Mass Coordinators:
- Should be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
- Have a passion and love for the Liturgy
- Be familiar with the liturgical calendar and the Ordo
- Be familiar with the sacristy and the various sacred objects and books
- Duties and responsibilities may vary from Mass to Mass based on the needs of the Presider and the parishioners attending the Mass.
Lectors
Lectors are instituted to proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture, with the exception of the Gospel. They may also announce the intentions for the Universal Prayer and, in the absence of a psalmist, recite the Psalm between the readings. Scheduling is done ideally quarterly and training is done typically in the Fall.
For further information on Lectors, click here.
Altar Servers
Altar Servers assist in the Sacred Liturgy by serving in various ways on the Altar.
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist (EMs) and Eucharistic ministers to the sick and homebound assist the priest in offering the sacred body and precious blood of Jesus in the sacrament of Holy Communion. Training is usually held n the Fall.
For further information on EMs, click here.
Please note: Lectors and EMs are typically individuals who have received all Sacraments of Initiation, to include teens who are received the Sacrament of Confirmation and are at least 16. Homebound Ministers must be 21 or older and complete the appropriate safe environment and background check protocols.
Audio Visual Team
The Audio Visual Team (AVT) is a dedicated group of adults (including college students) who ensure the audio visuals are working for the Liturgy.
This includes the live stream to Facebook and YouTube are working, project the lyrics and prayers onto the TVs in the Sanctuary, and any other AV issues may arise (with exception to our Sanctuary Sound System). They can be located in the back of the Sanctuary at the AV Station.
The following programs are used in their role:
ProPresenter (for slides)
ReStream (live-streaming)
Serving
If you are interested in serving within our Sacred Liturgy, please email Dan Marcacci, Director of Music & Liturgy.
We are actively seeking volunteers for all roles (shared above).