SEPTEMBER 2022
“ We grow consensus by being authentic and building trust.”
Ultimately, this practice reduces waste by cutting down on needless photocopying. It’s good stewardship of resources and of creation.
Compassion & Openness
Fourth, an approach filled with compassion and a willingness to be open to others will be crucial, especially when dealing with a merged parish situation. No matter how smooth a parish merger or collaboration is, it will remain impossible to please everyone every time. Re-forming a space so that it feels hospitable to the newly assembled musicians will contribute to the success of the blending of diverse ideas and opinions in the parish. Listen to the concerns of everyone; they are all members of the Body of Christ. At times you may hear words of wisdom; other times the words may sound sharp, but realize that these are often just veiled expressions of grief. It is an admirable charism to respect other points of view in ministry. In any endeavor with divergent opinions, a point of consensus must be reached, so an explanation of how and why a decision has been made for the common good is necessary, even if we disagree. We grow consensus by being authentic and building trust. Tis will come naturally as people hear our words and see our actions. Tese recommendations are directed more toward working with the people who will be using the music space for liturgy than to the space itself, but if hospitality toward one another remains the focus, you can make any space work well. After all, we know as musicians that music is powerfully unifying, and this can be a great example of that unity.
Storage
Fifth, when assessing the needs of a parish in a design project, whether for a renovated or new liturgical space, a cluttered music area is very often an issue. When the opportunity arises to renovate or build a church, storage is necessary in all areas, particularly
in the music space. Musicians need the necessary equipment to carry out their ministry, and a place to put everything they use. Here are the primary considerations that I offer to any committee as they begin a design project discussing the space for musicians:
1. How is the music area a part of the assembly and uniquely arranged for pastoral musicians to carry out their liturgical ministry? (BLS #89) It must be functional and not be a distraction from the focus of liturgical action.
2. Human comforts are necessary. Are restrooms conveniently located? Is there a place for coats? Musicians need water; where is this located? Where will the ensembles assemble with all of their things?
3. Sound equipment management and storage must be convenient and not obtrusive. Whether a single microphone or a full range of equipment for vocal and instrumental sound projection, space for all of this helps keep it in order and well maintained.
4. It is easy to imagine a place that is filled with musicians, choir, brass, strings, percussion, handbells, etc. It is equally as important to imagine a space that is fitting for smaller ensembles or a single cantor and accompanist. How will the space function for all the needs of the parish?
5. Keep in mind instrument storage that is needed for ensembles, from handbells to percussion and portable keyboard instruments, and for the cases of brass and string musicians during liturgy. All of these items need to go somewhere.
I have walked into many churches and listened to committees complain of the unsightliness of the music space. Te answer is simple—storage!
You may not be able to address all of the above considerations at once, especially on a budget. Consider some of these ideas and adapt them as needed. Start small: try at least one thing to improve your music space and to add to the enjoyment of others who make music. Perhaps a member of the parish can help to add a cabinet or shelf from a local thrift store; reimagine it and paint or stain it to blend into the space. Or make a coat rack with hooks, or a station for water. A little creativity can create much- needed hospitality in any space, modest or grand.
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