Music
Sacred music is a beautiful form of prayer. In the Roman Catholic tradition, our texts and melodies reflect the mystery we celebrate, the structure of the rites, and the seasons of the liturgical year. Across history, the Church has embraced a wide variety of styles—chant, polyphony, hymns, folk and gospel, meditative contemporary songs, simple tunes, and spirited acclamations. Each speaks to the hearts of people of different ages, cultures, and stages of faith. When we sing texts of Sacred Scripture within the context of Sacred Mystery, it resonates within us and draws us together. Music in the liturgy unites; instrumental music uplifts. Come and join us!
Adult Choir
The adult choir at St. Stephen's sings in 2, 3, and 4-part harmonies in a variety of styles. We're a warm and welcoming group — and we need YOUR voice!
Choir Members Commit To:
- Thursday rehearsals at 1:30 pm
- Rehearsing September-Pentecost
- Singing at the 10:30 AM Sunday Mass (warm-up 30 minutes prior)
- Sing at Christmas Eve and Christmas Day masses
- Sing On Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Vigil, and Easter Sunday (10:30 AM)
- Are assigned a Gather hymnal
- Ensure you call the Director of Music at 414-762-0552 when you will be absent
Children's Choir
Our Children's Choir is a warm, welcoming group for kids in grades 2-8. They sing regularly at weekend Mass, special feast days, and parish celebrations — sharing their gifts while growing in faith. Along the way, they will build friendships and discover the joy of serving God through song. Whether your child is new to singing or already loves it, the St. Stephen Children's Choir offers a fun, faith-filled way to be a part of our community.
Resurrection Choir
Our Resurrection Choir serves a beautiful ministry at St. Stephen, bringing comfort and hope whenever we celebrate the Order of Christian Funerals. Choir members are notified when a funeral is scheduled—often on Saturdays, though weekday services occur—and participate as they are able.
This ministry honors our loved ones and supports grieving families through prayerful songs. The music repertoire is familiar, and each member receives a binder. We rehearse for about 30 minutes before each service (total time of about 1.5 hours).
During the service, the choir leads the hymns and Mass parts and may offer a prelude or meditation piece. Many members also sing in the Adult Choir, though it is not required. New voices are always welcome in this compassionate and faith-filled ministry.
Cantor Ministry
The cantor’s primary role is to proclaim the Psalms and lead the hymns and acclamations. At St. Stephen, the cantor also welcomes the assembly and reads the announcements before Mass.
If you have a strong singing voice and are comfortable speaking from a written text, please consider being a cantor.
Instrumentalists
The music for Mass is planned at least two months ahead to allow time for practice and rehearsal. Instrumentalists are welcome to offer solo preludes and postludes. All selections receive final approval from the Director of Liturgy and Music and the Pastor. The parish has print music in C, Bb, and Eb scores.