External Cantor

Archdiocese of St. Louis; Saint Charles (MO); On-site; USD 35,000 - 52,000; Part time

Job summary

The Archdiocese of St. Louis seeks a Cantor to lead sung prayer within the parish’s liturgical life.

The Cantor guides the assembly’s participation through song and proclamation, serving as a spiritual witness and liturgical minister during Mass. Responsibilities include leading weekend liturgies, rehearsals, and coordinating with the Music Director to select appropriate music that aligns with readings and seasons.

Qualifications

• Strong vocal ability with clear diction and expression for liturgical music.
• Basic music reading skills and familiarity with Catholic liturgical repertoire.
• Understanding of Catholic liturgy and Mass structure.
• Ability to lead the assembly confidently, both with and without accompaniment.
• Reliable, punctual and spiritually grounded, with a service mindset.
• Prior experience as a cantor or liturgical musician is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead congregational singing at weekend Masses and other liturgical celebrations.
• Proclaim the Responsorial Psalm and Gospel Acclamation with clarity and reverence.
• Collaborate with the Music Director and clergy to select appropriate music.
• Attend rehearsals and prepare assigned music in advance.
• Encourage active participation of the assembly through prayerful leadership.
• Demonstrate understanding of liturgy and cantor role as minister of sung prayer.
• Participate in ongoing formation, including vocal training and liturgical education.

Skills

Vocal ability

Music reading

Liturgical knowledge

Leadership

Reliability

Cantor experience

Job description

The Archdiocese of St. Louis strives to teach and share our faith, serve others, and foster unity throughout the St. Louis area. Once a part of Kenrick-Glennon Seminary's campus, the Cardinal Rigali Center in Shrewsbury, MO is today the headquarters and curia (governing body) for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

Job Summary

The Cantor serves as a leader of sung prayer within the liturgical life of the parish. This minister helps foster the full, conscious, and active participation of the congregation through song and proclamation of the Responsorial Psalm and other sung parts of the Mass. The Cantor’s role is both musical and spiritual, serving as a visible witness to faith and a guide for the assembly’s worship.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead congregational singing at weekend Masses, holy days, weddings, funerals, and other liturgical celebrations as assigned.

• Proclaim the Responsorial Psalm and Gospel Acclamation with clarity, reverence, and musical skill.

• Collaborate with the Music Director and clergy in selecting appropriate liturgical music that aligns with the readings, liturgical season, and Church guidelines.

• Attend rehearsals and prepare assigned music in advance of each liturgy.

• Encourage and support active participation by the assembly through confident, prayerful leadership.

• Demonstrate understanding of the liturgy and the cantor’s role as a minister of sung prayer, not as a performer.

• Participate in ongoing formation, including vocal training and liturgical education, as recommended by the parish or diocese.

• Model Christian values and professionalism in demeanor, dress, and communication.

Job Requirements

• Strong vocal ability with clear diction, intonation, and expression suited to liturgical music.

• Basic music reading skills and familiarity with Catholic liturgical repertoire.

• Understanding of Catholic liturgy, including the structure of the Mass and liturgical calendar.

• Ability to lead the assembly confidently and prayerfully, both a cappella and with accompaniment.

• Reliable, punctual, and spiritually grounded, with a desire to serve the worshiping community.

• Prior experience as a cantor or liturgical musician preferred.

The Archdiocese of St. Louis is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital, parental, veteran or disability status.
Pre-Employment Screening
All candidates receiving an employment offer must submit a pre-employment screening. The screening will include criminal background check, Family Care Safety Registration, drug screen, employment and educational licensure/certification verification, health screening, and any other screenings deemed necessary for employment. Any offer would be contingent upon successful completion of any required screening.