Music and Liturgy for the Youth

by Jacob Anthony Perkowski

Jacob is currently the Music and Liturgy Intern at Saint James the Greater Catholic Church in Charles Town, West Virginia. At this writing, he is a high school senior involved with several school music ensembles. Part of his duties as Intern are assisting with annual music planning during the summer, directing various choirs (boys', girls', high school, baptism ensemble, secular show choir, and handbell choir). He rotates as one of the directors for the adult choir. He also plays organ and trumpet, cantors, and sings with the adult choir and two scholas. He is obviously a very valuable part of the music program at the parish.

When a young person reaches the age of about 16, he begins to search for a job. He needs money to do things, and a part time occupation is often the solution. He may become employed in food service, or another job, that, while providing him with income and helping his work ethic, does not further him as a person. For a few youth, the role of Music and Liturgy Intern at a Catholic church may be the solution.

What is a Music and Liturgy Intern, and what does he do?

He is someone hired by the parish to assist whoever is responsible for music and liturgy. The intern may help with the conducting, playing, singing, scheduling, filing, and choosing of sacred music. He may help with everyday liturgical chores such as changing altar cloths and printing liturgy sheets. The post is paid, because the Church wants the intern to be able to take the position without sacrificing the teenager's wish to make money -- an admirable sentiment.

Who could have this job?

Candidates for a Music and Liturgy Internship must be musicians in some way. This is integral for the work he will be doing. He should also be willing to do both exciting and dull work, for both are required. He must be willing to work with others in ensembles for common aims, not simply personal goals.

Why should a Church put in the time and money for such an intern?

The hiring of a Music and Liturgy Intern is beneficial for a parish. It provides another person to help with day-to-day activities, and to provide a fresh take on music. It creates the possibility of giving the church replacements when current workers retire. It gives the music department someone who can better relate to young choir members and their wants; someone who can help gear the program toward those younger musicians.

Why should the youth take the job?

For the intern, the job provides a source of income, and it helps him be involved in the Liturgy and remain close to the faith. It provides the opportunity for leadership experience in the form of directing choirs in rehearsal and performance, experience that may be useful for future careers, even non-musical ones. It also gives the young musician a chance to play music and practice performing while praising God at the same time. Finally, it provides networking and a forum to meet other musicians. This aspect is essential for a working music maker.

Young people are looking for employment, and for some, a Music and Liturgy Internship could be a great way to get it. It provides an opportunity for the youth to make money while also gaining contacts and skills useful in later life. More importantly, it enables the youth to be directly involved in the Mass. This kind of participation is essential for all Catholics, whether through music or another way. Being a Music and Liturgy Intern may be an opportunity for young people to encounter Christ, helping combat the perversions of modern culture and making the youth a member of a new and magnetically good society.

Article written 30 January 2023