The Big Announcement

So, in light of my last post (in June, no less), I will be continuing in music ministry, but I will be departing St. Vincent de Paul in Federal Way. Balancing family, a full-time job (not at St. Vincent's), and directing music ministry so far from home is (as expected) hard to do. I need to spend more time at home, and for the first time I can honestly say that I am fulfilled in my calling as a husband and father. I'll continue in music ministry, helping out for a little while in other places, hoping to build community a little closer to home.

It's been a long, hard decision, but it's a welcome change of pace. I love St. Vincent's, and it's likely I will continue to help out on little things.

For those at St. Vincent's, my (current) last day is Nov. 25th. We are looking for someone to take over for me for the weekly direction and planning for the music minsitry. You can contact me or the Youth Ministry office.

I will definitely continue to be in music minstry - it's been great to be afforded the ability and contacts that transcend parishes in the last couple years, so I'll likely be filling in and helping out here and there. I will likely continue this blog, since I like planning and helping folks get their groups in order for a vibrant, Catholic worship. I may direct again if the Spirit leads me to the right opportunity (I'd love to do this full time someday).

On to the relevant article:
That said, there are some dos and don'ts for changing hands in music direction:

• As a new music director, always have someone else ready to take over in your absence. I know I've got a couple of them.

If you haven't done this, it's too late. New music directors, take note. There is no place for ego in music ministry, especially in positions of authority. Delegate tasks of importance and you will find key people like your effective organizers, cheerleaders and your spirit-filled folks.

• As a departing director, once you leave, though it may be tempting to "hang out" and "help out". Don't do it.

By "sticking around" to ease the transition, you may likely be hindering the progress of the new director to establish themselves. You may wish to bring someone into your group and groom them for the position, but once they take over, it's got to be their game - no one should look to you (the departing DMM) to second guess their opinions or directions. It's hard to be professional about something we all love and care about so deeply.

Take an example of a singer who disagrees with the selections of the new director. Being a personal friend of the old director, he/she could call on the old director for their opinion. The old director should see the professional conflict here and do his/her best to just stay out of it. Your opinon as a former director will be respected and as a result may compromise the group in your absence.

• As the person hiring a new music director, it's very tempting to get a "quick fix" in place. You want a situation that is as stable as possible over the long-term.

What the person in charge of hiring should do is:

• Put together a job description and post it to your local Catholic new source, the ym.lifeteen.com, and (of course) the parish bulletin.

The best candidate may be led to you by the Spirit. Assume the Spirit needs you to advertise. I got my job this time because someone randomly put a posting on the LIFE TEEN website 10 years ago, and I was debating relocating to Seattle. It sealed the deal for me that the Lord wanted me here.

For the job description, include all hours and events they'll be expected to put in, all the tasks they'll be required to do (i.e. find, teach and direct musical instruments and vocals), clearly state competencies expected (Liturgy, voice, piano/guitar), and an indication of compensation. Be clear if this is a full-time or part time position.

• Be patient.

Hopefully you have at least four weeks to find a replacement. It will probably take longer. I have seen the tragedy of impatience getting the better of a couple Youth Ministers who've hired the first person who came through the door that seemed "good enough". So much more willing talent is out there than we probably realize. I've missed opportunities in my own backyard because parishes fail to advertise properly, sending away the better ministers in their own parish elsewhere due to impatience.

For myself, as a person responsible for assisting in the hiring hiring at a major corporation, I'd always want to have two or three candidates to choose from.

God bless you in your ministry! With the freed up schedule, I may see you all around a little more!


(c) 2007 by Art Leonard. All rights reserved.