St. Cecilia Mass and blessing for musicians, cantors

The annual Mass honoring St. Cecilia, patroness of musicians, will be held Nov. 21 at Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Wheat Ridge.  Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., will be the main celebrant.

The St. Cecilia Mass and special blessing is for all archdiocesan musicians and anyone who supports the ministry of music, including cantors, choir members and music directors.  The event is sponsored by the Denver Chapter of the National Association for Pastoral Musicians, the Archdiocese of Denver Music Committee and the Office of Liturgy.

Born in the third century, Cecilia married a Roman by the name of Valerian.  Following the marriage, Valerian and his brother converted to Christianity.  Very soon, the two men were found out and martyred, a fate that would eventually claim Cecilia herself.  Since the Renaissance, St. Cecilia is usually depicted with a viola or small organ.

The St. Cecilia celebration will also include presentation of the fifth annual St. Cecilia Award by Archbishop Chaput for work in the ministry of sacred music.

The St. Cecilia Mass will begin at 7 p.m. Sts. Peter and Paul Church is located at 3900 Pierce St., Wheat Ridge.  A reception will follow the Mass and blessing.  For more information, contact the Office of Liturgy at 303-715-3156.