Shrine Spotlights: Heavenly Harmony

At the heart of the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine's liturgical experience is a profound sense of the divine, intricately woven into the fabric of worship by Elizabeth Rivera. Reflecting on her role, Rivera shares, "I think it helps one to transcend; to be able to feel like you are actually participating in the mass and you're in heaven on Earth." From weekend masses to special Archdiocesan ceremonies, she plans each note to elevate the soul, guiding the faithful into a sacred encounter.

Rivera's musical journey began at Oklahoma City University, where she pursued her bachelor's degree, laying the groundwork for a vocation deeply rooted in the power of sacred music. "I've been playing piano since I was a kid," Rivera recalls, her passion for music nurtured from a young age and enriched by learning organ in her junior year of college under Dr. Timothy Olson. She then earned a master's degree in music at Florida State University.

For Rivera, the mission at the shrine is clear: "Sacred music is one of the only things in the world that can make you feel like that: when you come into the church and you hear the organ playing that you're somewhere else. You're somewhere holy and sacred." Her work, almost a year since joining the shrine, has been marked by moments that underscore the unity between music and faith, like the Shrine Dedication Mass, where she experienced the joy of conducting and the collaborative spirit of working with fellow organists.

Looking forward, the shrine's music department, under Rivera's leadership, is poised for growth. With aspirations to start an English choir and ongoing efforts to form a choir for the Spanish masses, Rivera's vision is inclusive and educational. She explains the importance of building a quality music program, saying, "If you don't know anything about music, I can always teach you... it's a little hearing/audition... essential things that people take for granted sometimes."

A significant project that Rivera is involved with is the pursuit of a real pipe organ for the shrine, enhancing the liturgical experience and the sacred music program. "We've signed a contract with the Schoenstein organ company, and so we just need to raise the funds to have that built and installed in the church. I'm really excited for a new organ... with a pipe organ, you can hear the difference," she shares, her enthusiasm palpable.

Balancing her role with family life, Rivera expresses gratitude for the support of her husband and children, underscoring the shared journey in faith and service.

For those inspired by the shrine's music ministry or wishing to contribute to the celestial harmonies that echo within its walls, Rivera extends an invitation to join this divine mission. Additionally, for those moved by the transformative power of music in worship, consider supporting our endeavor to bring a pipe organ to the shrine, amplifying our capacity to touch souls and lift spirits.

The Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine, through Elizabeth Rivera's guidance, celebrates music as a heavenly gift, inviting all to experience the sacred through song. To learn more about joining the music ministry, contact Elizabeth here, or to support the pipe organ fund, click here. Together, let's create an enduring legacy of faith, one note at a time.