Thank you Maria!

Video for Maria's final Mass at St Philip on July 30, 2023

Click HERE

Maria J. O’Kelly has been an extraordinary leader, guiding and developing our Adult, Junior, Praise Choirs, Cantor and Musicians, into the Music Ministry  program that we know today, with unwavering passion and talent.

Throughout her 28 years as Director of our Music Ministry, Maria’s musical prowess and dedication have enriched our worship services and uplifted our spirits. Her ability to inspire and connect with people through music has been truly remarkable. Whether it was the harmonies of our Adult Choir, the enthusiasm of our Junior Choir, the contemporary music led by our Praise Choir, or the singing of our cantors, Maria’s direction brought out the best in every member of the Music Ministry.

Some of the many highlights of Maria’s time at St. Philip Church include the annual ‘Lessons and Carols’ concerts when each Christmas, through carefully selected readings and music, Maria created an atmosphere of reverence and joy for the congregation, reminding us of the true meaning of the Christmas season; enhancing the solemnity of the Triduum, through sacred musical selections, leading up to the glory of Easter; Eucharistic processions, and many, many more.

St. Philip values the role of music in worship and recognizes the important contribution that Maria has made in leading our Parish in praising God through music. 

While we are saddened by Maria’s departure, we also celebrate her accomplishments and wish her the best as she embarks on a new chapter in her life. In August, Maria will bring her talent to her home Parish as Director of Music Ministry at St. Luke Church in Westport.

We extend our warmest wishes to Maria as she embraces new endeavors, and we will cherish the memories and musical traditions she helped create. Let us come together as a community to honor and thank her for the exceptional service, and bid her a fond farewell.

God Bless you on your new journey … we’ll miss you!

Fr. Sudhir

St. Philip’s Staff and Parishioners

Music is the fragrant oil that anoints the

body of Christ.

We are the broken jars from which it pours.

MJO