Praying God’s Word in music is a powerful language for the proclamation of the Word of God, but it is also a potent form of expression for the community to pray from the Scriptures. During his visit to France in September 2008, Pope Benedict XVI noted that “for prayer that issues from the word of God, speech is not enough: music is required” (www.vatican.va/ holy_father/benedict_xvi/speeches/2008/september/ documents/hf_ben-xvi_spe_20080912_parigi-cultura_ en.html). Christians often pray God’s Word through the singing of psalms and other biblical canticles, such as Mary’s song, the Magnificat. These scriptural songs form the basis for the daily prayer of the Church—the Liturgy of the Hours—and are used frequently during the celebration of the Mass, sacraments, and other rites.  The St. Mary Music Ministry is always in need of more voices for the Saturday evening Mass and Sunday morning Mass as well as other liturgical celebrations.  If you would like to find out more about joining the music ministry please contact the parish office at 616-897-9820 or email: office@stmarylowell.org.