Director of Sacred Music and Liturgy
St. James Catholic Church, built in 1913 and listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, is home to the third largest pipe organ in the Archdiocese of Louisville—a 41-rank Pilcher organ constructed in 1885 and installed in 1914. The parish features an all-volunteer choir averaging 35 voices. For photos of the church and organ, visit: St. James Photo Gallery.
About the Role
In collaboration with and under the leadership of the Pastor, the Director of Sacred Music and Liturgy works for "the glory of God and the sanctification of the faithful" through beautiful sacred music and robust liturgical programming. This full-time, exempt position is responsible for developing and maintaining a comprehensive sacred music program that assists parishioners in praying the liturgy well, while supporting the Pastor in the liturgical life of the parish. The Director reports directly to the Pastor and collaborates with parish staff and school faculty as needed. A part-time assistant provides support.
Responsibilities
- Sacred Liturgies:
- In close collaboration with the Pastor, oversee planning and execution of sacred liturgies, including weekend Masses, Holy Day Masses, and special (para)liturgies such as penance services, All Souls Day services, Liturgy of the Hours, Tenebrae, and Divine Mercy Sunday services.
- Oversee sacristan duties by delegating to the assistant and a team of sacristans and church decorators.
- Support the Pastor in providing liturgical formation for parishioners.
- Sacred Music:
- Plan sacred music selections and serve as organist/choir director at most liturgies, particularly those listed above. Funerals and weddings are planned by separate staff, though this position provides support for sacred music selection.
- Exercise first right of refusal to serve as organist for weddings (30+ annually) and funerals (15-20 annually) for an additional stipend.
- Formulate and implement a vision for growing the parish’s sacred music program through beautiful sacred music, English and Latin chant, catechesis, and gradual musical changes, including bulletin write-ups and seasonal concert series for choir(s) and schola(s).
- Coordinate a vital concert series (e.g., Bardstown Road Aglow, Bellarmine University, Sacred Heart Academy, Louisville Chamber Chorus) by providing logistical support and ensuring conformity with liturgical norms.
- Rehearse, schedule, recruit, and direct choir(s), schola(s), cantors, and accompanists, including both paid professionals and volunteers.
- Professional Education and Development:
- Maintain deep knowledge of Roman Catholic liturgy and stay abreast of current developments in sacred liturgy and music.
- Attend conferences hosted by reputable institutes of sacred liturgy and/or music as requested.
Requirements
- Deep desire to grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ in fidelity to the teachings of the Catholic Church.
- Strong background in sacred music, Gregorian chant, and liturgy, with piano proficiency and organ mastery.
- Extensive experience forming and directing cantors, choirs, scholas, and other musicians.
- Solid attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Deep knowledge of and respect for Catholic liturgical norms and principles.
- Proficiency with musical notation software (Finale, Sibelius, etc.).
- Ability to communicate effectively and work with diverse constituents, including children, the elderly, musicians, and challenging parishioners, with the ability to firmly yet gently set boundaries.
- Collaborative approach to working with parish staff and school faculty.
- Bachelor’s degree in music, liturgy, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred.
- Must be a practicing and devoted Roman Catholic.
Benefits
- Full benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401K match.
Employment in and by the Church requires conduct consistent with and supportive of the mission and purpose of the Church. Behavior must not violate the faith, morals, or laws of the Church or the Archdiocese of Louisville.