November 4, 2009

Annual St. Cecilia Mass to honor pastoral musicians

By John Gleason

The annual Mass to honor the patroness of musicians, St. Cecilia, will be held at 10 a.m. Nov. 21 in Light of the World Church in Littleton.  Auxiliary Bishop James D. Conley will be the main celebrant.  During the celebration Bishop Conley will present the St. Cecilia Award to a pastoral musician for their tireless effort in the field of sacred music.  There will also be a blessing for all archdiocesan musicians.

The Mass is sponsored by the Denver Chapter of the National Association for Pastoral Musicians, the Archdiocese of Denver Music Committee and the Office of Liturgy.  It is a special celebration for all archdiocesan musicians as well as those who support the ministry of music such as cantors, choir members and music directors.  It is named after St. Cecilia, virgin and martyr of the Church, who was born in the third century.  She married a Roman named Valerian who, along with his brother, converted to Christianity after his marriage to Cecilia.  The three were eventually found out and put to death.  St. Cecilia is usually depicted with a viola or small organ.

Light of the World Church is located at 10316 W. Bowles Ave.  A reception will follow the Mass.  For more information, call 303-715-3156.