The next two weeks of the podcast will discuss deaf culture & music ministry from a clergy member who devoted most of his priesthood to being their advocate, and a woman who is a “deaf choir” director, and yes, that’s a very real thing. This two-part series will help us, as a hearing people, explore the context of a deaf person, and see the ways they “hear” and experience music, which yes, they do!

This week we begin by speaking to a priest who dedicated his priesthood to both a hearing and deaf community. We hear how he started in this ministry, and what we need to know about deaf culture, as a hearing people.

Today’s episode hopes to give you some insight into the thoughts and hearts of pastoral musicians across the country right now. We’ll hear from different Dioceses, from publishers and copyright licensing companies, and lastly, we’ll hear from our NPM president, Steve Petrunak.

This is a hefty, much longer episode than usual because we wanted to make it chock full of stories, perspectives, and practical tips for you to apply in your music ministry. And besides, we all have plenty of time right now anyway, so sit back, relax and listen to our special episode ahead.

Note: please keep in mind that all interviews were recorded on Tuesday, March 17. From the time I interviewed two of my participants to the time I went to script this episode, their Dioceses changed from allowing Masses, to suspending Masses indefinitely.