Music is a way for God to lead us to the realm of higher things.

(STL. USCCB)

Why music?..."Among the many signs and symbols used by the Church to celebrate its faith, music is of preeminent importance... it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy. Yet, the function of music is ministerial; it must serve and never dominate. Music should assist the assembled believers to express and share the gift of faith that is within them and to nourish and strengthen their interior commitment of faith. It should heighten the texts...The quality of joy and enthusiasm which music adds to community worship cannot be gained in any other way. It imparts a sense of unity to the congregation and sets the appropriate tone for a particular celebration."

(Music in Catholic Worship, no.23)

Music’s role...is best accomplished if... it leads to a conscious, active, and full participation of the faithful both in body and in mind... and to which the Christian people has a right and a duty by reason of their baptism." (General Instruction of the Roman Missal, no.18)

The mission of music ministry... is to cooperate with the teaching of the Church, our pastor, and the Holy Spirit to allow our God-given talents to be used effectively to enhance liturgy through inspirational song and music, offered in a liturgically appropriate and cooperative manner. Participation in Teller County Catholic Community music ministry is based upon talent, attitude, commitment, potential, and a heart for liturgy, but not necessarily in that order. It is a privilege to be in music ministry, not necessarily a right. Music ministry does not exist for its own sake, but for the good of the liturgy.

The role of silence in music...” Sacred silence also, as part of the celebratrion, is to be observed at the designated times...at the conclusion of a reading of the homily, all meditate briefly...even before the celebration itself it is commendable that silence be observed...” (GIRM, no. 45)

“The Liturgy of the Word is to be celebrated in such a way as to promote meditation, and so any haste that hinders recollection must clearly be avoided. During the Liturgy of the Word, it is also appropriate to include brief periods of silence...” (GIRM, no.56)

The purpose of the Music Guidelines... is to help communication, provide reflection, and to articulate the purpose and goals of Teller County Catholic Community music ministry. They are meant to inspire each of us to reflect and prayerfully consider our motives and desires for being a part of music ministry.

"The Christian faithful who gather together as one to await the Lord's coming are instructed by the Apostle Paul to sing together psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs"
Colossians 3: 16