Tom Fortier is a graduate of Westminster Choir College, Princeton, New Jersey where he earned a performance degree in classical organ with a minor concentration in voice. A 40 year veteran of church music, Tom's ecumenical background as a church musician includes positions in the United Church of Christ, Presbyterian, Methodist, Lutheran, and Roman Catholic churches. In addition to his position at Ss. Charles and Helena, church Tom serves as Artistic Director and Conductor of the Flint Mastersingers, a 50 voice chorale providing social ministry to seniors and others in the greater Flint area.
Adult Choir sings at various Liturgies from September through Pentecost. Anyone in the 8th grade or older is invited to join. The Adult Choir practices on Thursday evening from 7 to 8:30 PM.
Children’s Choir is for all children in grades 1 through 7. The Children’s Choir sings at one 11 AM Liturgy per month except during the summer. The Children’s Choir practices on Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:15 PM.
Contemporary Ensemble is for people 8th grade and older and incorporates a variety of instruments as well as singers. The Contemporary Ensemble provides music for two Liturgies per month. They rehearse from 6 to 7 PM on the first and third Thursdays, September through Pentecost.
Hand Bell Choir is open to anyone and is directed by Jan Palmer. You do not need to know how to read music to join this group. Practice is on Wednesday evenings at 6:15 PM. The group provides music for different liturgies from September through Pentecost.
Instrumentalists play with the Contemporary Ensemble. There are also times when other choirs may require an instrumentalist or when an instrumental is required.
Resurrection Choir comes together to sing for Funeral Liturgies. There are no formal rehearsals. You need to be available during the day.
Cantor acts as the song leader during the Liturgy and also proclaims and leads the Responsorial Psalm during the Liturgy.
Seasonal Choir Members are people who want to commit to singing and practicing for just the Christmas or Easter season. Each season’s commitment would be for approximately 5 – 6 weeks.
Music Program Librarian is responsible for the distribution and collection of various choir music selections as well to assist the Music Director in maintaining the music library. Musical experience is not necessary, and you do not need to sing or play in any of the choirs to participate in this position.