Cantor Substitute

Position: Pastoral Musician  

Date Revised: May 26, 2026 

Reports to: Gayle Lambert 

Location: St. Michael Catholic Church 

www.fwdioc.org  

The principal duty of all employees is to assist in the mission of the Church in the Diocese of  Fort Worth. This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of  all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties,  responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.  

General Position Summary: The Pastoral Musician serves on an as-needed basis to lead the  congregation in sung prayer during liturgical celebrations, choir rehearsals in the absence of the  Director of Music, and direct choral groups as assigned. 

Principal Accountabilities:  

General Administration  

• Lead the congregation in singing for Masses, rehearsals, and other liturgical celebrations  as assigned. 

• Direct choirs or ensembles in the absence of the Director of Music or another assigned  cantor. 

• Provide musical leadership when the Director and other musician are absent. 

• Collaborate with accompanists, lectors, and other liturgical ministers to ensure a cohesive  and prayerful celebration. 

• Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to rehearsals or Mass for preparation and warm-up. 

• Uphold the dignity, reverence, and sacred nature of the liturgy through appropriate  musical and ministerial conduct.

Working Conditions and/or Physical Requirements:  

• Work Environment: 

• The position is primarily performed in a church or chapel setting during liturgical  services, rehearsals, and related events.  

• Work may occur during evenings, weekends, and holy days as needed to cover  services.  

• May occasionally include outdoor services or special parish events.  

• Physical Requirements: 

• Must be able to stand for extended periods (typically 1–3 hours) during  rehearsals, Masses, and liturgical celebrations.  

• Must possess clear vocal ability suitable for leading congregational singing and/or  choir performances.  

• Must be able to read and follow musical scores.  

• Requires ability to hear musical pitch and tone accurately.  

• May involve moderate physical activity, such as walking within the church  campus, setting up music stands, or distributing materials.  

• Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively with clergy, choir members,  and the congregation.  

• Other Requirements: 

• Must maintain a professional and reverent demeanor appropriate for a worship  environment.  

• Punctuality and dependability are essential, especially for scheduled liturgies and  rehearsals.  

Travel Requirements:  

• Infrequent travel, by car, may be required to Diocese Parishes and/or schools.  • Semi-frequent travel may be required to local destinations for music-related activities.  

Education and Experience Preferred:  

• Demonstrated proficiency in reading music and leading congregational singing.  • Ability to sight-read and sing in a variety of sacred music styles  

• Experience in directing choirs or small ensembles preferred.  

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.  

• Active, practicing Catholic in good standing with the Church, living a life consistent with  Catholic teaching and morals.  

• Willingness to serve on weekends, evenings, and Holy Days as needed.  • Commitment to preparation, punctuality, and professionalism.  

Knowledge and Skills Preferred:  

• Demonstrated ability to listen empathetically, make peace, and de-escalate  • Demonstrated history of good judgement.  

• Demonstrated aptitude for adaptability and flexibility.  

• Ability to use various computer software programs; strong computer skills in Microsoft  Office Suite, especially in Word and Excel.  

• Ability to use various office machines (copier, fax, phones, calculator, scanner, etc.) or  ability to learn.  

• Ability to meet deadlines and follow directives from Pastor or Chief of Staff in a timely  manner.  

• Ability to receive, understand, retain, and complete verbal and written tasks.  • Ability to work independently as well as in teams.  

• Ability to provide excellent customer service and work efficiently with staff, clergy,  religious, and laity.  

• Ability to honor and maintain confidentiality.  

• Ability to work well with people from a diverse variety of audiences.  • Excellent organization, prioritization, and communication skills.  

FLSA Designation: NonExempt, Occasional 5  hours On-site