St. Joseph Church
New Kensington, Pennsylvania

A Pennsylvania Charitable Trust
A Parish of the Diocese of Greensburg

The Reverend John S. Szczesny             The Reverend Alan W. Grote
         Pastor                                           Parochial Vicar

St. Joseph Parish Music Ministries

            St. Joseph Adult Choir is an integral part of the St. Joseph Parish community.  We are a diverse group of volunteer singers under the direction of Diane Painter, a life-long member of St. Joseph Church.  The love of God, of music, and of each other binds us close together.  We are a people of prayer, desiring to grow together in holiness bringing many gifts but reflecting one Spirit.  We are united, loyal, and devoted to our call, patient, generous, and forgiving.  We pray to St. Joseph, our Patron Saint, and to St. Cecilia, Patron Saint of musicians for their intercession to grant us the grace for our music to be the very heart of our prayer and to be faithful examples of God's word in our lives.

            From the earliest days of the church, music was an essential part of Christian worship and our choir members realize the important role in this ministry.  Many elements contribute to the success of our choir.  Choir members must first of all sense their place within the church as "calling" or "vocation."  Our primary and most important element is to praise God and enrich prayer through music.  We also find many opportunities during the liturgical year and during the summer to socialize and deepen our friendships with each other.

            We sing with combined choirs and other parishes for feast days and celebrations.  We participate in choir festivals of the community for charity.  We take part in Diocesan choir concerts and workshops.  Becoming a member of the adult choir is simple.  No audition is required.  Reading music is not a requirement.  Rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings at 7:00pm.  We sing at the 11:00am Mass on Sunday from October to Pentecost.  We also minister at special masses and celebrations throughout the liturgical year.  We welcome with enthusiasm any adult or high school student who would want to share their time and talent with a friendly, helpful, and sociable group.

            St. Joseph Church also offers other music ministries within the Parish.  Our cantor program is open to men and women to lead and encourage the assembly in singing.  Cantors lead the parish community in psalms, hymns, and acclamations at all Masses throughout the year. 

            St. Joseph's Resurrection Choir is a profound and solemn ministry which provides solace to bereaved families during funeral liturgies.  We sing of hope and resurrection in a work of ministry that touches the hearts, lives, and faith of countless people.  It is the greatest consolation we can offer.  This ministry is open to all members of the community.

            St. Joseph Parish honors the gifts that each member brings to these music ministries.  Encouraging each other in ministry and prayer, we grow together in knowledge and faith, supporting the faithful who answer God's call.  Come and lift your voice in praise!  We are committed to the faith and to sharing the faith through the music we sing.  Soli Deo Gloria!