Director of Sacred Music & Liturgy

Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church
Jordan, MN

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church is seeking a faithful, talented, and visionary Director of Sacred Music & Liturgy. This is a full-time, exempt professional position dedicated to lifting the minds and hearts of our congregants to God through the rich tradition of Catholic Sacred Music.

The ideal candidate is a practicing Catholic who desires to advance the mission of the Church to worship God in Spirit and Truth. You will work closely with the Pastor to implement a liturgical vision that fosters an atmosphere of deep reverence, helping our community encounter the Person and presence of Jesus Christ.

Visit https://sjbjordan.org/employment-blog/director-of-sacred-music for more information!

Job Purpose & Mission

The Director of Sacred Music & Liturgy serves as a primary leader in the prayer life of the parish. You will develop the musical talents of our parishioners, oversee all liturgical planning, and ensure that the beauty of the liturgy reflects the majesty of the Church’s traditions.

Key Responsibilities

1. Musical Leadership & Excellence

  • Serve as the primary organ accompanist and director for all weekend Masses (Sat 5:00 pm, Sun 8:00 am & 10:00 am), Holy Days, and major liturgical celebrations.

  • Direct and develop the parish’s choral programs, including the High School Choir, Sunrise Choir (8:00 am), and Festival Choir (10:00 am).

  • Recruit, train, and provide ongoing spiritual and musical formation for cantors, accompanists, and instrumentalists.

  • Conduct weekly rehearsals with a focus on increasing the technical ability and prayerful engagement of choir members.

2. Liturgical Planning & Collaboration

  • Collaborate with the Pastor to plan and implement Sunday, Holy Day, and special liturgies (including the Day of Mercy, processions, and para-liturgies).

  • Curate music selections that prioritize Gregorian Chant, Polyphony, and sacred hymnody.

  • Prepare worship aids for seasonal events such as Christmas, Holy Week, and Easter.

  • Assist wedding couples and grieving families with music and liturgy preparation (stipends provided for funerals and weddings).

3. Administration & Stewardship

  • Manage the Music Library, ensure copyright compliance, and oversee the maintenance of all parish instruments.

  • Act as a resource person for the parish school music teacher and other staff members.

  • Communicate schedules and liturgical plans effectively to ensure a harmonious and organized ministry environment.

Qualifications

  • Faith Life: A practicing Roman Catholic and living disciple of Jesus Christ with a deep love for the Church’s mission.

  • Education: College degree in Music, Organ, or a related field (or equivalent professional experience).

  • Technical Skill: Exceptional proficiency on the organ and the ability to direct from the bench.

  • Sacred Tradition: Extensive knowledge of Gregorian Chant and Polyphony, including the ability to read chant notation.

  • Leadership: Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, with a track record of building and managing volunteer teams.

  • Commitment: Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and all major Church holidays.

Working at St. John the Baptist

Employment by the Catholic Church is a ministry. Our staff members are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the faith, morals, and laws of the Church. We offer a collaborative environment rooted in prayer and professional excellence.

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