A Fond Farewell from Jordan DeRouen

Dear Basilica family,

After nearly seven years of service to the Basilica of Saint Peter, I’m ready to seek a new opportunity in the service of music and liturgy. While there is not yet a set timeline for my departure, I have every plan to remain here until after the Easter season, and it is my intention to make a transition to a new position in the summer. 

I am thankful for the emphasis placed on the importance of music here and for the parish’s on-going investment in our marvelous three-manual Peragallo pipe organ. I am also extremely grateful to all in the parish who have grown with me in understanding the importance of incorporating Gregorian propers such as the introit now chanted prior to singing the processional hymn and the antiphon before the distribution of Holy Communion. To the St. Peter’s parish and school family, you are the blessing from God that makes this vocation worth all the hard work and many hours it takes to run a church music department of the highest standard. I also thank the Gallery Choir for their patience and hard work with me over the years.  They have risen to every challenge I have thrown at them, and have been a joy to work with. Finally, I am eternally grateful to Fr. Linsky for his understanding, patience, spiritual and professional guidance, and for his constant support of my ministry here.

I ask for your prayers as I seek a placement that will challenge and inspire me a

s I will that you find a replacement for me.  St. Peter’s will be forever embedded in my heart as a special place to encounter Christ.  Thank you all and God bless you!

-Jordan