Music at 11.30am Sunday Mass
Christmas 2000 Carol Collections
During the Christmas celebration the choir enjoyed several carol recitals. In addition to the service at St Joseph's Hall which raised £100 for the new church, the Ashley Centre event realised a collection of £207.77 for the Epsom Hospital Medical Equipment Fund. Singing around the Woodcote Estate on a frosty Friday evening (£75.56), at the Amato Pub (£34.12) and Heathside Court, Tadworth (£40.30), gained a total of £150.04 for Leukaemia Research.
Godelieve Ghavals writes about the choir
At the end of June I shall be returning to my parish in Wahroonga, Australia. I have enjoyed my time in England very much, especially just being part of the congregation, including having to sing.
Organists get a great buzz when playing a hymn and the congregation raised the roof. We also get satisfaction out of knowing that the music adds to the mood of the service. I am very impressed at the speed at which the congregation here learns new hymns. (This could be due to the fact that all the verses are sung. I might try this technique back home.)
My biggest plea is for some more organists for the 11 am Sunday service. Do you have a reasonable standard of playing? If so, you are needed. I will be happy to guide you over the next few months as to the ins and outs of organ playing. Are there any young piano students about Grade 5/6 who may be interested in extra keyboard skills? The organ is a wonderful addition.
We also need the help of a few more dedicated cantors for the 11 am Sunday service. You would lead the congregation with singing of new hymns, as well as singing the psalm and would only be rostered once a month. Believe me, the satisfaction and fulfilment one gets from being part of enriching the liturgy is very special
extract from Winning Post, 1999