Job Opening: Director of Sacred Music (Part Time 20-25 hrs)
Parish: St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Somonauk, IL

The Director of Sacred Music is responsible for (1) administering the musical needs of the Sacred Liturgy, (2) coordinating and providing quality music at the weekend, holy day, wedding, and funeral Masses, and (3) directing the parish choir and cantor programs.

Qualified candidates should have (1) familiarity with the church documents on sacred music and the liturgy, (2) the ability to utilize the great tradition of Catholic sacred music including traditional hymnody, Gregorian chant, and the proper of the Mass, (3) the ability to accompany cantors and choirs on organ, (4) the necessary skills to coordinate the music volunteers and work in cooperation with the pastor and parish staff, (5) proficiency in Microsoft Office and Publisher to generate seasonal and as needed printed order of worship aids.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church is a rural country parish of about 350 registered families in Somonauk, IL (population of 2,200) and the Diocese of Rockford. The three weekend Masses are Sat. 5:00 PM, and Sunday 8:00, and 11:00 AM. The parish church was built shortly after the Civil War and contains a traditional choir loft with 1988 Allen MADC organ. The parish currently uses the Ignatius Pew Missal. The musical program is rooted in sacred hymnody, chant, and choral music for a small ensemble. The parish has two choirs, an adult choir currently made up of six voices, and a Men’s Choir that is dedicated to Gregorian chant and sings periodically throughout the church year.

Compensation will be negotiable and commensurate with training and experience. Stipends for weddings and funerals are additional. Please e-mail a cover letter and resume, to the pastor, Rev. Kevin Butler, at sacredmusic@stjbsom.org. Any further information or questions you have about the position can be answered by the outgoing music director, Mark Mackeben, at the same email address.