Ave Maria - Bruckner

Pipes

Well it's a hot Texas June. The Feast of Corpus Christi was this past Sunday. At. St. Jerome in the Austin Diocese High Mass was celebrated in Latin. (according the the 1962 norm) I hope that your feast day celebration was as wonderful. Latin: "Corpus" body, "Christi" Christ

Corpus Christi Cathedral

Corpus Christi Cathedral - The Lord is My Shepherd - Psalm 23

Ave Verum Corpus

"Hail, true Body" (of Christ) is the translated title of Mozart's Ave Verum Corpus. This is, a glorious work of Faith which, in my opinion, sums up the basis of our Catholic doctrine. Greg Labus while codirector of the Corpus Christi Cathedral choirs best described this work as the "Alma Mater" of the cathedral (of sorts). It is my hope and prayer that the Lord Bless Father Labus in his ministry, that he may glorify God alway; may Greg hear the Choirs of Angels and may they be his divine inspiration to praise God through sung prayer. Amen.

Corpus Christi Cathedral Music

If you enjoy music in a solemn church setting, where song meets prayer; you should consider traveling to Corpus Christi, Texas and visit the Corpus Christi Cathedral (on Lipan and Upper Broadway). The cathedral is a Spanish style church and houses the Kenedy Memorial Pipe Organ (a 90 plus rank instrument).

The Cathedral Music program is one of the best church music programs in the nation. It is home to the Pontifical Chorale an 80 member auditioned adult SATB choir. (Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass - just in case you forgot from your choir days) The chorale is accompanied by members of the Corpus Christi Symphony and the grand pipe organ. The chorale sings on Sundays at the 9:30 am televised Mass. The Pontifical Chorale has been invited to the Vatican in Rome to sing for the Holy Father on several occasions and during his trips to the US. Singing at the 12:00 noon Mass is the 60 voiced Cathedral Youth Choir (SATB). The Schola Cantorum (men's Gregorian Chant ensemble) sings on Saturdays while the children's Cherub Choir sings once a month. The adult Hand Bell Choir rings at special liturgies and events.

All of this was started by Lee Gwoetz and Greg Labus, co-directors. Greg has continued his ministry as Rev. Labus with the neighboring Diocese of Brownsville. Lee is currently director of music and is a fantastic musician/organist who travels presenting workshops and seminars on liturgical music. The Cathedral is truly the gem of the city. Located on the bluff over looking the bay, it is a must see for all faithful. While there, get information on their Cathedral Concert Series which brings performing artists from around the world. Artists include the Bonn Orchestra from Germany, Vienna Boy's Choir from Austria, Westminster Boy's Choir from England, and many more (all performances are free). But above all, the best part of your visit to the cathedral is their warmth and hospitality. I often travel (the three hour trip) to Corpus Christi on Sundays just to sing and pray in the beautiful Cathedral by the sparkling sea. A place where you feel the true presence of God.

For information on CD recordings of the choirs, please contact the cathedral Office of Music Liturgy. The recordings are magnificent.