Celebrating the sovereignty of Christ over all creation, the Diocese of Youngstown marked the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe on November 23 with a liturgy centered on the very people who help the Church proclaim that truth in song.
Musicians from across the diocese gathered at St. Columba Cathedral, for the Gold Mass and concert performed by organists, two combined choirs and a violinist. The Gold Mass, now in its second year, honors the cantors, choirs and instrumentalists who serve parish liturgies each week. Organizer Ralph Holtzhauser, diocesan director of music, said this year’s celebration showed encouraging growth.
“This is our second Gold Mass, and it was wonderful to see it expand,” Holtzhauser said.“ We had two choirs instead of one, more performers overall—and we still ended early. It really came together beautifully.”
Holtzhauser said the musicians’ ability to unify quickly was remarkable.
“It’s always hard to bring together people who have never sung or played with each other and ask them to create something cohesive,” he said. “But they did. It was truly a pleasure to hear.”
He emphasized the essential role music plays in worship.
“I always say that music is the glue that holds the liturgy together,” Holtzhauser said. “You have the spoken word, but if the music is poor, the whole experience suffers. People—whether they say it or not—often come for the music. And our musicians put in tremendous work, not just into their jobs but into their craft. Recognizing that matters.”
The concert’s musical arrangements were built around volunteers eager to contribute.
“I simply asked who wanted to sing or play, and from there I had two choirs and several instrumentalists,” Holtzhauser said. “That allowed me to create combinations of instrumental and choral pieces, organ-led pieces—really a full spectrum.”
Holtzhauser added that he remains committed to promoting the organ, the Church’s official instrument.
“Interest in it seems to be fading in some places, but I’m not going to let that happen here,” he said.
Because the Mass coincided with the feast of Christ the King, Holtzhauser selected At the Name of Jesus as the closing hymn.
“It’s a fantastic and fitting piece for today,” he said. “Not only does its text honor Christ the King, but the musical movement itself is incredibly inspiring.”
He said he hopes the Gold Mass encourages younger parishioners to consider music ministry.
“We need to encourage young people to keep playing music,” he said. “That’s essential for the future of the Church.”
A reception concluded the evening, with food catered by Cockeye Barbecue of Leavittsburg.
