Company Description
Our Lady of the Wayside Parish, part of The Archdiocese of Chicago, we have a long tradition of congregational singing and participation in liturgy. We seek a Director of Music to lead us in continuing and expanding our liturgical music ministry and enabling the congregation to grow spiritually through music, song and celebration. We look for our director to provide music of diverse styles for weekend liturgies, sacramental celebrations, school/RE masses; working with our volunteer choir members, cantors and instrumental musicians: and collaborating with the Pastor, parish staff and the Liturgy Commission.
Role Description
The Director of the Music Ministry is responsible for the planning of all music for weekend liturgies, special liturgies and liturgical seasons. The director will play at our five weekend masses: The position also provides music for funerals and weddings. The music Director participates in the parish liturgy commission.
· Motivates full and active participation in parish music ministry and worship.
· Plans, conducts, coordinates and evaluates liturgically vibrant music ministry.
· Working with the Pastor and Liturgy Commission, develops and implements meaningful parish liturgical celebrations.
· Provides liturgical music for Masses: on weekends: Saturday 5:00 PM, Sunday 7:30, 9:30, 11:00 and 6:00 PM, Holy Days, and Sacramental Celebrations: First Communion, Confirmation and First Reconciliation as well as seasonal liturgies.
· Provides music for weddings and funerals as requested (fees for these services are determined by the Music Director, Operations Director, and the pastor and are considered extra compensation.
· The Director will direct the choral choirs, work with cantors and instrumentalists to ensure that all liturgies are scheduled, well planned and vibrant while providing training and guidance for choir members and musicians.
· Actively recruits volunteers with the aim of involving/welcoming newcomers and a wide spectrum of our parishioners of all ages.
· In collaboration with administrative staff, plans, purchases, and/or prepares worship aids/song sheets for liturgies and celebrations; manages the parish music copyright and licensing programs.
· Ensures that the music ministry and its ministers comply with the guidelines for Protecting God’s Children for those who minister with and to children in accordance with the Archdiocesan policies.
· Attends/participates in staff meetings.
This is a full-time on-site role for a Director of Music Ministry. The Director will oversee music ministry programs, coordinate music for church services, provide music education, play the organ, and uphold the musical traditions within the church.
Qualifications
- Music Ministry and Church Music skills
- Music Theory and Music Education knowledge
- Proficiency in playing the organ
- Strong leadership and organizational skills
- Experience working in a religious or community music setting
- Bachelor's degree in Music, Music Ministry, or a related field
