Music Ministries
Cantors
Cantors lead the congregation in song during weekend Masses, weddings, funerals and special Masses. They foster assembly singing, announce hymns and sing the psalm. Cantors are usually a soloist or a duet, but small ensembles are also welcome. An audition may be required.
Contact: Andrew Kem at (608) 216-9380
Choirs
Saint Dennis has choirs for all ages. Adult Choirs lead the assembly in music at the weekend Liturgies. Contemporary choirs sing at the Saturday 4 pm and Sunday 9 am Mass every other week. The Praise Choir performs traditional four-part music, usually at the Sunday 10:45 am Mass. The Family Choir allows parents with children to raise their voices together in leading song the fourth Sunday at 9 am Mass during the school year. Practices are at 8 am in the Music room before the scheduled Mass.
Contact: Andrew Kem at (608) 216-9380
Instrumentalists
Instrumentalists enhance the music of our parish choirs and cantors by providing piano, guitar or percussion accompaniment, as well as other instruments.
Contact: Andrew Kem at (608) 216-9380
Altar Servers
Altar Servers and Adult Servers assist the presiding priest during the four weekend Liturgies and on holy days and special feast days. Adult servers also help lead the altar servers, who are students in fifth grade and above.
Contact: Carol Jacques at (608) 246-5124
Art & Environment Committee
The Art and Environment Committee provides an appropriate environment of prayer and celebration, consistent with the liturgical calendar and appealing to all senses, to promote parishioner understanding of and participation in the Liturgy. This committee also coordinates the brick orders and maintenance of the Saint Dennis Celebration of Life Garden. An inscribed brick memorial or living tribute gift for a loved one, family member, friend, or self is a permanent gift that celebrates life.
Contact: Ruth Gabriel-Benesh at (608) 445-0603
Extraordinary Ministers of Communion
Extraordinary Ministers of Communion (Eucharistic Ministers) distribute the Body of Christ to the assembly at weekend Masses. Ministers are trained and assigned to a team designated for each Mass.
Contact: Jeanne Schommer or 608-839-5223
Funeral Acolytes
Funeral Acolytes are adults who assist the presiding priest during funerals.
Contact: Carol Jacques at (608) 246-5124
Leaders of Prayer
Leaders of Prayer read the Prayers of the Faithful at weekend Masses.
Contact: Terry Ludkey at (608) 230-5584
Lectors
Lectors have the privilege of reading God’s Word publicly in the assembly at weekend Masses. Readers proclaim the first or second readings, or both. A workbook with the readings and reflections and other guidance is provided to each lector.
Contact: Deb Tahany at (608) 244-3727
Ministers of Hospitality/Greeters/Ushers
Ministers of Hospitality/Greeters and Ushers assist at weekend Liturgies and special services to make people feel welcome, find open pew space, take up the collection and provide other assistance as needed.
Contact: Mike Stewart at (608) 225-8388
Sacristans
Sacristans set out the vessels, ensure lay ministers are present and make other preparations for the weekend Masses. They also clean and put away vessels after Mass. This ministry allows the priests to be available to people prior to and following the Liturgy. The ministry can be performed by one person, or a couple. It is an enjoyable family ministry for young couples with children.
Contact: Carol Jacques at (608) 246-5124