While many people in the Diocese of Sacramento are waiting for that first glimpse of the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament’s newly-revealed original dome, members of the Cathedral choir are simply looking forward to going back home.

Ever since the closure of the Cathedral for restoration nearly two years ago, the 21-voice ensemble has been on the road, singing for Sunday Masses at Westminster Presbyterian Church and for special events in parishes throughout the diocese.

The choir traveled to St. Isidore Parish in Yuba City last October to sing at liturgies during the diocesan Synod and to St. Clare Parish in Roseville for an ordination Mass in May.

Marianna Rose, who joined the Cathedral choir four years ago, said that while the choir felt “very accepted” in other churches, there is nothing quite like being back at home base.

“It’s been quite a journey,” said Rose, who is already looking forward to singing in the choir at a Mass on Nov. 20, the official reopening of the Cathedral.

“We’ll be back home to rehearse and even have front row seats at the re-dedication,” she said.

The choir will also have a new location, moving from the north transept to the south, an improved acoustical environment and new Reuter pipe organ twice as large as its predecessor.

Over the past seven years Schoos has directed the choir, he has seen it mature and become a truly accomplished musical ensemble. It is now, he said, a ministry for people who not only love to sing, but love the church’s liturgy and want to use their gifts to enhance it.

“What is important,” he said, “is not just making beautiful music. It’s being truly supportive of the prayers of the people.”

Father Renier Siva, who was ordained to the priesthood at a Mass May 30 at St. Clare Church, said the songs of the choir deepened both the solemnity and celebration of the occasion for him.

“At one point when the choir was singing the Litany of the Saints, I was with the saints at that moment,” Father Silva said.

Milt Whaley joined the choir five years knowing that it was both a spiritual and musical commitment and an pportunity to pursue his personal passion to sing for people.

Whaley is also a member of the Sacramento City Choir, with whom he has made three tours performing in Europe.

“Singing as part of a religious service really appeals to me,” said Whaley, who began singing at Mass as a member of the choir at Holy Spirit Church in Sacramento. “I keep coming back because (Schoos) teaches a lot when you sing for him.”

Auditions are being held during July and August for prospective Cathedral choir members.

Requirements for membership include having some previous choral singing experience, a voice that blends well and a willingness to make a commitment.

To schedule an audition for the Cathedral choir, call (916) 733-0220 or send an e-mail to jschoos@diocese-sacramento.org.

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