Three high school students and one adult from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church participated in this year’s Music Ministry Alive summer institute held at St. Catherine’s University in St. Paul, Minnesota.  Lauren Copeland (Junior), Caitlyn Martinez (Senior) and Samuel Guzman (Junior) each completed applications and submitted recordings in order to be accepted into the 5 day program.  Applicants also had to be actively involved in their church’s music program and have a desire to deepen their commitment.  An Adult Track was also offered for adult leaders who are involved in mentoring young people in leadership roles in the church.  Paula Smith attended the Adult Track Program this year lead by Fr. Ricky Manalo. 
 
The daily routine in the program consists of daily prayer, workshops and special events where the youth participants learn more about the aspects of music leadership such as liturgy planning, ministry and scripture study.  There are many opportunities for the participants to sharpen their musical skills.  Many are invited to sing solos, participate in liturgical dance and to play and take private lessons in their designated instrument.  “The goal of MMA Youth Track is to help each participant grow as an individual so that they can better serve as leaders and ministers in the Church.”
 
Team members and guest artists over the years have included Fr. Ray East, Kate Cuddy, Tony Alonso, Stephen Petrunak, Bobby Fisher, Fr. Michael Joncas, Marty Haugen, Bob Hurd, Joe Camacho, Tom Franzak, Jesse Manibusan, Steve Angrisano, Sr. Kathleen Harmon S.N.D., Jaime Cortez, and many more leaders in the areas of liturgy, music, and youth ministry.