Dominican Mission preaching is Lectionary-based. The Church’s weekly readings usually serve as the foundation for the mission mass themes and preaching. Exceptions depend upon special requests for topical presentations.

Fr. Jim and Sr. Ann ‘team’ preach all weekend liturgies. Fr. Jim begins the homily focusing on the readings. A short reflection is offered by Sr. Ann. The homily is then concluded by Fr. Jim. In some dioceses where it is necessary to be more sensitive with regard to women preaching, an option is for Fr. Jim to preach at the usual homily time, with Sr. Ann offering a general introduction to the readings or making a presentation about the mission following the communion rite. Fr. Jim presides at many or all of these liturgies, as determined after consultation with the pastor and parish staff.

The mission then continues with preaching at weekday morning Eucharists and again at creative evening services. For the weekday masses, the mission preaching can be given either at the usual homily time, or immediately following mass. The special evening services can include any of the following: a “Family Night” celebration, a celebration of Evening Prayer, a Penance Service, a “Prayer for Healing” service, or special topical presentations. Usually, the final night of the mission is a closing “Prayer Concert.” Fr. Jim and Sr. Ann alternate preaching during all these times.

Because Fr. Jim is an accomplished musician, this particular Dominican Mission is also “musical.” This simply means that hymns and songs are a very important part of the preaching. Often, a new song is taught at the beginning of a session, to be used either as part of the preaching itself, as a meditation following the preaching, or at the end of the service. By mission’s end, a congregation has often learned from six to ten new songs, making for a most joyful celebration of preaching and parish renewal. Fr. Jim also composes new proper responsorial psalm settings for each day of the mission.

Given the special place of music throughout a mission, another option is for Fr. Jim to work closely with all interested parish musicians, cantors, and choirs. It is wonderful to combine a parish’s musical forces, incorporating them into the closing prayer concert on the final night of the mission. The music can be sent ahead of time for learning. Then, there are usually one or two music rehearsals scheduled during the mission in preparation for the closing service.

Simple receptions follow most evening services (except Penance) where people have a chance to share fellowship and meet the preachers. During the receptions Fr. Jim’s CDs are made available for purchase. One of his compositions, I WAS HUNGRY, was sung during the communion rite at the funeral of Mother Teresa of Calcutta.

If desired, a special Family, School, and/or religious education program Mass can be celebrated. Fr. Jim and Sr. Ann have much experience visiting school classes and working with children. They are also available for individual conferences arranged by special appointment.