Cross-Cultural Bridge-Building with Hispanic Music Ministries

Led by Peter Kolar, bilingual composer and GIA Editor for Spanish and Bilingual Resources

Two seemingly different worlds often collide within parish settings when it comes to music ministry. Anglo and Hispanic communities frequently co-occupy the same liturgical space, but with only fraught, if any, interaction. Small misunderstandings can grow into insurmountable ones, and ministerial isolationism is often the result. How can we as musicians break down barriers, connect through life experiences, and ultimately embrace one another in this shared vineyard of service?

As a former Chicagoan now living in a border region, and someone who moves fluidly between “both worlds,” Peter Kolar will lead us in an exploration of the underlying causes of these divisions, and seek to build bridges between them. Don’t miss what will be a vibrant and fruitful discussion for our chapter on this important topic!

Registration is free, but please RSVP by Tuesday, April 16

In preparation for Lent, you are invited to join with fellow NPM Chicago members to reflect on the Christmas season, share ideas for Lent and Triduum, and gather together as a Chicagoland pastoral music community as we begin this new year.

Join us on Friday, February 2nd at St. Norbert Catholic Church in Northbrook. We’ll begin at 11:30am, followed by lunch served at noon. During lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to share perspectives from Christmas, ideas in preparation for the upcoming seasons, and connect with fellow pastoral musicians in the area.

11:30am: Doors open

12:00pm: Lunch is served

12:15pm: Fellowship, discussion, and networking with Chicagoland pastoral musicians and liturgists

Registration is free, but please RSVP by Wednesday, January 31st.

Join us for a casual get-together at the beautiful St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood—parking is easy and free, and there are great transit options as well!

6:00pm: Gathering and optional church tour

6:30pm: Opening prayer

7:00pm: Outdoor reception (weather-permitting)

Snacks, along with beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options will be provided.

Special thanks to Michael Ruzicki, Director of Music and Liturgy, and Fr. Manuel Dorantes, Pastor of St. Mary of the Lake and Our Lady of Lourdes Parishes for graciously hosting NPM Chicago.

Registration is recommended and helps us gauge how many refreshments to purchase—click below to RSVP for the event.

Taking CTA to St. Mary of the Lake

Take the CTA Red Line to either Wilson or Sheridan for the most direct access to the church; the CTA Purple Line also stops at Wilson during weekday rush-hour services.

Join us for a casual get-together at St. John of the Cross in Western Springs—parking is easy and free, and a great central location for those wanting to get together in the western suburbs.

6:00pm: Gathering and optional church tour

6:30pm: Opening prayer

7:00pm: Outdoor reception (weather-permitting)

Snacks, along with beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options will be provided.

Special thanks to Jessica Koch, Director of Music of St. John of the Cross and former Chapter Director of NPM Chicago for graciously hosting NPM Chicago.

Registration is recommended and helps us gauge how many refreshments to purchase—click below to RSVP for the event.