Archdiocesan Office for Youth. Pray Witness Serve

Music Workshops

St Augustine said "he who sings, prays twice" (Qui cantat, bis orat), suggesting that through music, we can talk to God personally and as a community. Music is also an attractive and engaging way for young people to pray and participate in the Mass.

Are you interested in starting music ministry at your parish?

As part of its support for parishes, the AOY is offering parishes a chance to develop music ministry within their parish/communities through personalised workshops and training. Blair McWhinney, an experienced singer/songwriter and member of the AOY team, can talk to your parish/youth group about the following: How to initiate music ministry in your parish, Understanding praise and worship, Music as a means to get young people involved, etc.

Blair is also available to lead praise and worship or provide musical support at youth group meetings, Masses or events. Blair has released albums as a solo artist and performed at various festivals (Christian and Secular) across the country. Read more  If you are interested in starting music ministry in your parish, contact Blair on 9412 3341 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

What is "praise and worship"?

Sample praise and worship

Over the years, traditional music has developed into a more contemporary form, using the pop style of music that is easy to play and sing along to by the wider congregation. This is commonly known as praise and worship. It is typically led by a worship band with a lead singer/guitarist who guides the congregation in song.

This form of music is an effective way to encourage prayer that is both personal and communal and can be done as a way to lead into the Mass, or as a separate event where the audience is encouraged to pray through the music played. 

Remember, music adds to the celebration; it isn’t the celebration

Music is usually played before, during or after the Mass. Usually, the choir/singer begins the Eucharistic celebration with a song as the priest and servers enter, as well as during the following parts of the Mass:

•  Kyrie eleison ("Lord have mercy")
•  Gloria ("Glory be to God on high")
•  Credo ("I believe in one God"), the Nicene Creed
•  Sanctus ("Holy, Holy, Holy")
•  Agnus Dei ("Lamb of God")

It’s important to remember that music played at a Mass celebration should not replace the main reason why you are there, i.e. to receive sacrament of the Eucharist. Music simply adds to the overall prayerful atmosphere of the gathering.