St. Andrew the Apostle Choir
From the loft to the Lord: music that lifts the whole parish.
Many Cultures, One Voice of Praise
“Singing is praying twice.” — attributed to St. Augustine
If you’ve ever wondered where that joyful sound comes from on Sunday mornings — the harmonies rising from the loft, the warm swell of the organ, or the unmistakable energy during feast days — you’ve already encountered one of the happiest corners of our parish: the St. Andrew the Apostle Choir.
What began in November 2023 as a small group of parishioners who simply loved to sing has grown into a vibrant, multicultural musical family. And like many good parish stories, this one began with a spark — in this case, a spark named Paul.
A Choir is Born
At the time, Fr. Denis hoped to form a parish choir for the 10 a.m. Mass. Our longtime Cantor and Leader of Song, Sharon, was faithfully serving in her ministry as she has for several years — leading the assembly in song, supported by the many voices of the congregation.
As a member of the Liturgy Committee, Paul recognized the need and took it upon himself to begin recruiting. His invitation was simple:
“If you love to sing, come upstairs. Let’s build something beautiful for God.”
And people did.
Augustus (organist), Sharon (Choir Director), Paul (the Spark)
Within months, the choir grew steadily — at one point reaching over 30 names on the roster. Today, the choir includes up to 20 dedicated, faithful members, each bringing their own gifts, cultures, and love of music to the loft.
A Ministry of Heart, Harmony, and Humour
Under Sharon’s direction, and supported by our musicians
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Augustus, organist
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Barb, pianist
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Kirk and Aasher, guitarists
The choir quickly found its rhythm.
Members come from all walks of life and from countries including India, the Philippines, Nigeria, Ghana, Mexico, Brazil, and Canada. The loft became more than a place to sing — it became a place to belong.
Some choir members even participate as families, with parents and their teenage children singing side by side. This family dimension adds warmth and continuity to the ministry.
Young people are welcome to join when a parent is also part of the choir, ensuring a supportive, faith-filled environment.
Our beloved pianist, Barb - her hands have played the notes — her heart has served our parish for many dedicated years.
Growing Leaders for the Future
One of the quiet strengths of the choir is its commitment to sustainability. Several members are now being trained as cantors and leaders of song, ensuring that even when Sharon is away, the choir can continue to serve confidently and prayerfully.
This training builds skill, confidence, and a shared sense of responsibility — a true ministry of stewardship.
From Christmas to Easter and Beyond
Their first major challenge arrived quickly: Christmas Masses. Nothing bonds a new choir quite like learning a mountain of music in a month.
Then came Lent, the Triduum, and Easter — seasons rich with musical depth and tradition. The choir rose to the occasion with extra practices, determination, and a shared sense of mission.
In recent years, the choir has also offered a Christmas Eve carol-singing experience — a warm, joyful blend of singing, participation, and festive spirit. Not a formal concert, but a beautiful way to welcome the Nativity.
Now entering their third year, the choir sings with confidence, joy, and a growing repertoire of harmonies and parts.
One Parish. Many Cultures. One Voice of Praise.
The choir takes this to heart. Their purpose isn’t performance — it’s service. They help lead the assembly in full, active, conscious participation, lifting the prayer of the whole parish through music.
And yes — they have a lot of fun doing it.
Want to Join the Choir?
If you can carry a tune — or carry an instrument — there’s a place for you.
No auditions. No pressure. Just bring your voice, your heart, and your willingness to praise God with joy.
Practices
· 20 minutes before Mass
· 1 hour after Mass during Advent and Lent
Occasional extra practices for special feasts. Simply come up to the choir loft and speak to Sharon.
You might just discover a new family waiting for you.
A Glorious Easter Sunday
A Welcome Message from Sharon
Whether you’ve been singing for years or simply feel a tug on your heart when the opening hymn begins, I want you to know there is a place for you here.
Our choir is a joyful, multicultural family of parishioners who love to praise God through music — and we would be delighted to have you join us.
We rehearse before and occasionally after Sunday Mass. We laugh often, we learn together, pray together, sometimes share meals and party together, and we support one another as we grow in faith and in song.
You don’t need formal training or a perfect voice. You just need a willing spirit, the ability to carry a tune and a love for praising God with good liturgical music.
If you feel called to sing or if you can play an instrument, come up to the loft and say hello. I’d be happy to welcome you personally.
Sharon (Choir Director, Cantor,
Encourager-in-Chief)
Because God gave you a voice and the choir loft is a great place to use it.
Come sing with us. You belong here.
What to Expect at Your First Choir Practice
It’s friendlier, funnier, and far less intimidating than you think.
You’ll be greeted like a long-lost cousin.
Choir members have a special gift for making newcomers feel instantly at home. Expect smiles, waves, and at least one person offering you a seat before you even put your coat down.
You’ll laugh a lot.
Someone will crack a joke, someone will sing the wrong verse, and someone will clap on the off-beat. It’s all part of the charm.
You’ll want to come back.
Because it feels good to sing. Because the people are wonderful. Because the loft starts to feel like home.