By Kate Schmidt
As we all gather around the Lord’s table at mass, we sometimes forget there has already been much work done behind the scenes to add to the beauty of this celebration. At SES we have been fortunate to experience two gifted Music & Liturgy Directors who help make this happen.
Mike Weiser, former Music & Liturgy Director spent the past 11 years at SES “working with a whole lot of people who wanted to serve the Lord through music.” He happened upon this position through his sister, parishioner Mary Ann Berans, as he was leaving his previous role at St. Jerome’s. Mike was glad his sister mentioned SES’s opening, stating he was blessed to be able to do music on a high level with many talented people. Mike’s next phase in life certainly doesn’t fit the definition of retirement. He is currently Choir Director at the Inspira Community in Surprise, while also covering for vacationing music directors in the diocese, teaching piano and voice lessons, taking 10,000 steps per day, and spending as much time as he can with his 6 children spread throughout the country and his local grandchildren.
Steve Raml is St. Elizabeth’s new Music & Liturgy Director, coming highly recommended by his predecessor, Mike. In fact, Steve stated that “Mike has started a wonderful program here, and I promised I would not mess it up!” Steve’s early career was in television news as an anchor and reporter at various ABC affiliates across the country. When he realized he was 212th in line to replace Peter Jennings, he decided it was probably more fruitful to take his career closer to his true passion – music and liturgy.
A native of South Dakota, Steve and his wife of 39 years, Teri (flautist accompanying her husband at mass) moved to Phoenix in 2003. He has worked as a worship trainer for the Diocese of Phoenix, along with music leadership at parishes like St. Thomas More and St. Bridget’s.
Steve finds the mass the deepest form of prayer and welcomes all to engage with their fellow parishioners at any level they feel comfortable, from hospitality ministers and lectors, to music ministers. He would like to take this opportunity to put out a call, especially for those ministries in which SES is in most immediate need: Hospitality and Lectors. If you would like to meet more of your fellow parishioners while showing God what you’ve got – please consider looking closely at these ministries. Of course, Steve is always in need of vocalists and musicians as well!
Please welcome Steve and Teri and feel free to chat with him about how these ministries could fill a need at church and a space in your life.
