APRIL 2020
CHAPTER Inspiring ideas for NPM’s
THE NEXT
locally connected musicians Editor’s Note: Chapters are NPM’s local presence and support in 73 dioceses across the country. Many have web sites or Facebook pages to connect members and share activities in timely ways. In Pastoral Music, we are featuring chapter best practices that meet every chapter’s threefold mission for networking, formation and social justice. Watch the digital newsletter Notebook for up-to-date chapter news.
Putting Priestly Talents at Center Stage Louisville, Kentucky
Painter. Dancer. Writer. Sculptor. Musician. Actor. Poet. Comedian. Storyteller.
Te men we know by the title of “priest” are so much more than that. As ministers who have the privilege of working closely with many priests, pastoral musicians often have unique insights into the hidden talents of our clergy. Members of the Louisville NPM Chapter decided it was time to publicly display some of the creative and recreational pursuits of our talented priests. Tis was the impetus behind the Archdiocese of Louisville’s first ever Priest Variety Show, held in late August 2018.
Te sold-out auditorium at Assumption High School was the venue for over two hours of acts in a wide range of genres. Tese included:
• a guitar/vocal rendition of “Tennessee Whiskey” by Fr. Maurice Hayes, OFM, Conv.
• a waltz to “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” by Fr. Terry Bradshaw
• a clown routine in full makeup by Fr. Bill Hammer
Patti Such of the Louisville Chapter
• a dramatic recitation of “Errol Flynn” by Fr. Bill Burks
• a sidesplitting comedy act by Fr. John Burke (assisted by a bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken)
• and a set with Fr. Chuck Walker’s rock band, “Too Young for Sextet.”
Beyond performing arts Meanwhile, the lobby was transformed into an art gallery, displaying original paintings, sculptures, drawings, and art in various media from the priests of the archdiocese. Before and after the show and during intermission, attendees were able to peruse the gallery, enjoy wine and hors d’oeuvres, and speak to the artists about their work.
Among the audience of 300+ were parishioners, many fellow priests, Archbishop Joseph Kurtz, and diocesan staff. Chapter members served as ushers, stagehands, and accompanists as needed. A free- will collection was taken to benefit the chapter.
Lighthearted—and healing In the course of planning this event, something unexpected happened. Just weeks before the variety show was set to stage, the Pennsylvania Supreme Court released its grand jury report, detailing deeply disturbing acts of abuse and cover-up by members of the clergy. For us and for many others
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