Liturgical Ministry: For information on serving as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister, Usher, Gift Bearer, Server, or Greeter – contact Brenda Pryor or Jane at the Parish Office: (901) 527-8282.
Music
Jane Scharding Smedley
Organist-Choirmaster since 1980, Jane oversees the musical and liturgical life of the parish. Contact her about participating in any area of music ministry. She assists couples in planning their wedding liturgy and advises in the preparation of funerals. She trains and coordinates volunteer Docents to serve as Greeters and to give tours of our historical church upon request.
Jane holds both Bachelor and Master degrees in Sacred Music, and the Colleague and Choirmaster certificates from the American Guild of Organists. A former Board member of the National Association of Pastoral Musicians, she serves as their regional liaison.
For more information, contact Jane Scharding Smedley at: (901) 527-8282, ext.15
or email mrsjane@stpeterchurch.org
Saint Peter Choir
The Choir welcomes singers (aged 14 and older) to assist at the 11:00 AM Sunday Mass, September through June. The ability to read music is helpful but not necessary. Repertoire is chosen from the rich treasury of sacred music spanning the centuries – chant to contemporary. Singers unable to make a long-term commitment may join “Christmas Choir” during December and sing for Midnight Mass or “Easter Choir” and assist with our Holy Week Liturgies.
Saint Peter Cantors
These singers assist the Congregation’s song, leading the Psalm and adding solo repertoire upon occasion. Cantors should have a clear, pleasant voice and possess basic music-reading skills. A strong sense of commitment is essential. Individual rehearsals are scheduled as needed. Training sessions for those new to this ministry are offered upon request. If you like to sing and have a desire to lead musical prayer – consider the ministry of Cantor.
Contact Jane Scharding Smedley about any role of Music Ministry or involvement in our Liturgies (mrsjane@stpeterchurch.org)
Saint Peter Children’s Choir
Young singers, ages 4 to 10, are invited to sing for the Christmas Eve Family Mass. Rehearsals take place on the Sundays in December, following 11 AM Mass.
Handbells
Our two-octave set of handbells are waiting for willing ringers! Some ability to read music is useful. Come be a member of our bell “team”
Instruments at St. Peter
The sanctuary organ of 34 ranks was built in 1923 by the French-Canadian firm of Casavant Freres, and was restored by the same company in 1989. It supports musical prayer during parish liturgies, including weddings and funerals. Considered one of the premiere recital instruments of the area, it is frequently heard in concerts by guest artists.
In St. Martin de Porres Shrine Chapel is a 4-rank portative organ built by Dennis Milnar. It was donated by the Gammill Family in 2003.
The 6-foot Boston grand piano in the sanctuary was donated by Barbara and Bryan Simmons in memory of his mother, Lorraine Simmons.
A newly-restored Kimball piano in the Parish Hall will be dedicated on January 18, 2015 in memory of Brother Vincent Malham, FSC. The late president of Christian Brothers University was a concert pianist who frequently worshipped at our parish before his untimely death. Br. Joel McGraw, FSC, will offer a short recital and be joined by other musicians from the Christian Brothers community.
Special Musical Events
Memphis ChoralArts presents
Gloria!
Featuring the Memphis Children’s Chorale and Memphis Youth Chorale
Monday, December 17th
7:00 PM
St. Peter Church
Selections will include John Rutter’s “Gloria”, Mack Wilberg’s “I Saw Three Ships” as well as many other Advent and Christmas favorites, and a congregational carol-sing with St. Peter’s historic Casavant organ. A festive reception will follow. The concert is free with donations gratefully accepted at the church door. Free secure parking on Adams across from the church.