My Calling as a Ward Choir Director

Responsibilities

The Lord is grateful for your willingness to serve in His Church. Below is an overview of the responsibilities for your calling.

Purpose of Music in the Church

Sacred music increases faith in Jesus Christ. It invites the Spirit and teaches doctrine. It also creates a feeling of reverence, unifies members, and provides a way to worship Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. The Lord declared, “My soul delighteth in the song of the heart” (Doctrine and Covenants 25:12). (See General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 19.1.)

Ward Choir Director

The ward choir director helps ward members increase faith in and worship of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ through sacred music. They recommend music for the ward choir, direct choir rehearsals, and conduct the choir in Church meetings (see 19.4.3.3).

Ward Choirs

Church choirs bring glory to God, unify and edify Church members, and bring joy to participants and congregations. Choirs are encouraged to use the hymns of the Church, which invite the Spirit and help choir participants and congregations learn the gospel (see Hymns, 381–83). Church choirs may also sing other sacred musical selections. All musical selections should teach the gospel with power and clarity. (See 19.3.)

Guidelines and Policies

Choir rehearsals do not usually exceed one hour. For additional policies and guidelines, such as obtaining music, use of meetinghouse instruments for practice, or community choirs, see section 19.7 of the General Handbook.