Guided Prayer and Reflection for Our Times by members of the Marquette community
A warm welcome to Steve Burks, new director of the Gospel Choir sponsored by Campus Ministry
The Campus Ministry-sponsored Gospel Choir sings contemporary Gospel Music as well as spiritual songs of the Gospel tradition. Steve Burks joins the Marquette University community as the Gospel Choir's director and we are excited, blessed and grateful to have him here.
For over two decades, Steve has been active musically in the African American Christian Church as a vocalist, choir director, pianist, and Hammond organist. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Music, and a Master of Arts in African American Studies, from Indiana University. His music industry experience includes piano arranging for Piano Marvel and Cherry Lane Publishing, performance with the House of Blues Music Forward Foundation, and performance with the cruise industry for the past 8 years as a soloist. Steve was born and raised in Gary, Indiana.
Steve is looking forward to his time at Marquette. "I am pleased to have been extended the opportunity to work with Marquette University in furthering its efforts in Gospel music," he said. "I look forward to our collaboration in fostering both cross-cultural understanding, and student appreciation for the spiritual, artistic, and academic value of this music."
The Campus Ministry-supported Gospel Choir is open to students of all races, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Students will learn about Gospel and praise music rooted in the African-American experience and explore the spirituality of this particular musical genre. Course credit is provided under the College of Communications - Performing Arts.The choir appreciates and honors the joy in singing and praising God, regardless of musical ability.
Gospel Choir (MUSI 1160) may be taken for 1 or 0 credit. Registration is now open on Checkmarq to all students who are interested in joining for Spring Semester 2021.
Celebrating Black Catholic History Month
“The story of African American Catholicism is the story of a people who obstinately clung to a faith that gave them sustenance, even when it did not always make them welcome. Like many others, blacks had to fight for their faith; but their fight was often with members of their own household. Too long have black Catholics been anonymous. It is now clear that they can be identified, that their presence has made an impact, and that their contributions have made Catholicism a unique and stronger body.“
– Fr. Cyprian Davis, OSB
This beautiful print of Janet McKenzie’s Holy Family painting hangs outside the Chapel of the Holy Family in the Alumni Memorial Union (AMU). November is Black Catholic History Month! In honor of this, we invite you to share artwork that tells the story of, celebrates and reflects Black Catholic history this month. Tag @mucampusmin or send to our DMs and we will share.
Thank you, student musicians for providing liturgical music!
We are grateful for the following students who have generously committed their time and skills in providing prayerful music for Tuesday and Thursday 10 p.m. Masses in the Chapel of the Holy Family this semester. AMDG
Jackie Gerhardson, senior, Biomedical Engineering, and a minor in Computer Engineering
Emily Kivland, grad student, Physical Therapy Doctorate program
Carissa Burnes, senior, Secondary Education and Broad Field Science with a Concentration in Biology and a minor in Chemistry
Collin Wrobel, senior, Computer Science and Mathematics
Edward Dold, grad student, Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Gabriella Accardi, freshman, Computer Engineering
Claire Conger, senior, Exercise Physiology & Physical Therapy Doctorate Program
Patrick Sheehan, grad student, Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Charles Peterson, freshman, Political Science (Thursday night 10 p.m. Mass)
Dominique Vazquez, senior, Education and Theology (Thursday night 10 p.m. Mass)
Jackie Gerhardson, Engineering '21 shared this reflection on what it has been like to provide music ministry in a time when singing has not been permitted:
Switching over to providing music in a voice free environment has been challenging and a bit saddening at times. I think we all miss the typical excitement and joy when our favorite hymn comes on and we are engulfed in a church full of voices praising the Lord. However, being able to adapt and still provide music in this new environment (even though it is recorded ahead of time) still allows us musicians to make a joyful noise unto the Lord and I think it helps those attending mass connect to God in a musical way (different from the busyness of everyday life and the silence of reflection). And at least for me, music always brings a smile and a little bit of encouragement. If just one more person has a better experience praising God through the music we make, that makes all the effort and discomfort worth it. Until the day we can all sing together again...
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)/Confirmation Retreat time for reflection on Sacraments
Do you remember that incredibly warm, summer-like Saturday a few weeks ago? It was almost hot! Along with the incredible weather, Saturday, November 7th marked the annual fall retreat for students preparing to receive the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and 1st Eucharist. While the pandemic prohibited this year’s Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults/Confirmation Retreat from being held at a scenically located retreat center, the one-day retreat soaked in the glow and beauty of a campus come alive on a golden November day. Nine student candidates and four student team members dove into a day dedicated to offering spaces to reflect on the meaning of the sacraments and how God is active in their lives.
Please keep students preparing for the sacraments of initiation in your prayers.
If you are interested in receiving Baptism, Confirmation, or 1st Eucharist or if you would like to inquire about becoming Catholic, contact Steve Blaha, assistant director of Campus Ministry, at stephen.blaha@marquette.edu.
Affiliated Ministry Spotlight: CRU
Cru is an interdenominational Christian ministry that's compassionate about connecting people to Jesus Christ across campus, different cultures, and the world! Cru offers weekly small group Bible studies, opportunities for mentorship, and a weekly meeting where you can connect with students from all over the metro area via Zoom! Interested in more information and in getting connected? Follow @cruatmarquette on Instagram and fill out the form in their bio!
A warm welcome to Steve Burks, new director of the Gospel Choir sponsored by Campus Ministry
