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The Holy Synod of Bishops of the Orthodox Church in America has designated the Sunday on or following the commemoration of Saint Romanus the Melodist (October 1) as “Church Musician Sunday.” This yearly designation will take place this year on Sunday, October 1, 2023. Church Musician Sunday highlights the essential role of liturgical music in Orthodox Christian worship and the important role of church musicians in the life of the Church.
Parishes are encouraged to recognize those who serve in the various roles involved in Church music: choir directors, singers, chanters, readers, composers, arrangers, and bell-ringers, through a public acknowledgment following the Divine Liturgy. Additionally, parishioners and parish leaders are strongly encouraged to consider the many essential responsibilities of those who lead the musical responses during the Divine services including the offering of appropriate remuneration for choir directors. The Department of Liturgical Music offers numerous resources to support the role of liturgical music through providing texts, rubrics, music, classes, and workshops. The majority of resources are offered free of charge.
Graphics are available for download that are suitable for printing and posting online. Parishes are encouraged to use them in their local publications and online.
You can support the ongoing projects of the Departments of the OCA by considering a gift to the Stewards of the OCA. Your financial support is crucial to the success of these endeavors! For questions about the work of the Departments, contact Father Thomas Soroka at tsoroka@oca.org.
