National Association of Pastoral Musicians Convention 2014

"Meet me in St. Louis" is how the song goes (from the 1904 world's fair!) and so they did just that - some 2,500 Musicians, Priests, liturgists and those involved in supporting the singing and praying church gathered for the 37th Annual Convention of the National Pastoral Musicians Association in St. Louis this past week. There were a few of us from Ontario - Nicholas (10:00 organist) and I travelled with 2 musicians from St. Christopher's Parish in Mississauga. Down there we met Bill Target from the Archdiocese of Toronto, and David Jafalice from Newmarket, as we explored the theme - "Proclaim the Good News".

There were fantastic Speakers - including Jerry Galipeau - who gave our Parish Mission in Lent 2012.  He spoke on proclaiming good news when we are broken or alienated from institutional Church. Paul Westermeyer spoke on how Musicians claiming their art will allow them to proclaim good news.  Ann Garrido spoke powerfully on Conversion - and the practice of conversation as key in proclaiming good news. Sr. Honora Werner, OP, spoke wonderfully on the church - in Vatican II - as bearing good news.

I did not get to hear the concluding talk by Msgr. Ray East - Sent to proclaimn Good News (But I will watch it on www.praytellblog.com)  The entire week was a source of inspiration and refreashment for my soul! I am grateful I was able to be able to attend!
Peace