The feast of St. Cecilia, patron saint of musicians, occurs during November, and this month often becomes a time for focusing on the gifts, talents and vocations of musicians who serve the church.

On Tuesday, Nov. 27, Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory has invited all musicians and choir members of the Archdiocese of Atlanta to the second annual St. Cecilia Mass at 7 p.m. at the Cathedral of Christ the King. Archbishop-emeritus John F. Donoghue will celebrate the Mass, and Father Ricardo Bailey will be the homilist.

Choir members, cantors, instrumentalists and worship leaders are encouraged to attend and lift their voices in prayer and thanksgiving.

In a message addressed to the musicians of the Archdiocese, Archbishop Gregory said that “in the nearly three years that I have served as your Archbishop, I have had the pleasure of visiting all of the parishes of the Archdiocese and have had the opportunity to pray with you and sing with you at confirmations, parish feast days, dedications of new buildings and many other occasions. By now you know that I, too, like to sing, and that I place great value on the service rendered by all those dedicated to providing liturgical music. For that reason, last year I instituted what I hope will become an annual tradition; a Mass and reception near the feast of St. Cecilia, the patroness of musicians, so that I might honor those who dedicate their time and talents to this service, and so that the musicians of the Archdiocese might join together in worship, song and fellowship.”

The music for the celebration will be drawn from various traditions of the local church, and the principal musicians for the Mass will be the assembly gathered. The song of the assembly will be supported by Cathedral organist Dr. Timothy Wissler and guest harpist Rhett Barnwell.

The Cathedral of Christ the King is located at 2699 Peachtree Road, NE, Atlanta.

A reception will follow the Mass.