In today’s episode, we turn our attention to the Responsorial Psalm—one of the most familiar, beautiful moments in the celebration of Mass. What is the purpose of the Responsorial Psalm within the Liturgy of the Word? And how does it invite the assembly into prayer through Scripture and music?

We are honored to welcome Fr. Michael Joncas to guide this conversation. Known for his deep insight into liturgy and sacred music, Fr. Joncas helps us explore the theological, spiritual, and pastoral significance of the psalm, and why the Church continues to call us not only to hear the Word, but to sing it back in faith.

Whether you are a cantor, music director, clergy member, or simply someone who prays with the liturgy each week, this conversation offers a deeper appreciation for the Responsorial Psalm as Scripture in song and prayer for the gathered Church.

Ministry Monday’s Story Series continues with Rodolfo López and Estela García-López, a husband and wife duo who serve in music ministry in the pacific northwest and are two of NPM’s Pastoral Musicians of the Year. Rudy López and Estela García-López are pastoral musicians, composers, and event presenters originally from Los Angeles, California, and from Portland, Oregon, for the last twenty-six years. They have been committed to enriching the liturgy -- in both English and Spanish--through music. They have served as music directors, cantors, choristers, and instrumentalists in parishes throughout Southern California and Portland, Oregon, for over four decades. Today I sit with Rudy and Stella and discuss their pastoral music journey with its joys, challenges, and many blessings.

This episode of Ministry Monday is brought to you by CLEF – Catholic Liturgical Ensemble Formation. 

CLEF offers in-person and online resources for ensemble musicians, including the annual CLEF Summer Program. Join us July 26-31, 2026 in Ohio for an immersive week of music, prayer, and community specifically designed for ensemble musicians. Experience vocal and instrumental ensemble sessions, clinic day breakouts, private coaching, and more. Visit clef.life for details.

Introducing "The Story Series", a recurring series of episodes on Ministry Monday! The Story Series interviews pastoral musicians across the country and shares their pastoral music journey, both in its rewards and challenges along the way.

Today we speak with Rick Gibala, a lifelong pastoral musician who started his ministry in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. He was the first layperson to be the Diocesan Director of Music, and founded the Pittsburgh NPM chapter. His ministry led him to the DC-Virginia area where he's ministered there since 1986. Rick shares how he began to serve in pastoral ministry, what brought him to Virginia, and why he thinks NPM remains a critical part of music ministry in the Church today.