The Controller of Audio & Sound should be responsible for ensuring that all audio requirements of the Parish are properly planned, maintained and operated, particularly during the Holy Mass and other Church services.
Key Responsibilities
- Audio System Management
- Ensure the sound system is functioning properly before every service.
- Check microphones, amplifiers, speakers, mixers and related equipment.
- Maintain appropriate sound levels throughout the service.
- Holy Mass & Services
- Be present sufficiently early to conduct a complete sound check.
- Ensure the Priest, Deacon, Lectors, Choir, Organist and other participants can be heard clearly.
- Avoid excessive volume, distortion, feedback and unnecessary background noise.
- Sound the First Bell (Call to Gather) – 15 minutes before Worship begins
- Sound the Second Bell (Call to Worship) – announcing the start of Worship
- Microphone Management
- Allocate and position microphones appropriately.
- Ensure batteries and wireless microphones are ready for use.
- Keep spare batteries and essential accessories available.
- Liturgical Audio Cues & Inputs
- Maintain and operate all pre-arranged audio cues required during the Holy Mass and other Church services.
- Sound the Mass Announcement Bell at the prescribed times, including the required two bells prior to beginning of Worship.
- Operate approved recorded sounds, such as a bugle call, where these form part of a particular service or Parish programme.
- Ensure all recorded audio inputs that are appropriate, correctly timed and played at suitable volume levels.
- Maintain a master schedule or cue sheet identifying when each audio input is required.
- Test all such audio inputs before the service to ensure they are ready and functioning correctly.
- Coordinate these cues with the Priest, Lector Coordinator, Choir Master/Organist and other service coordinators so that they do not interrupt or conflict with the liturgy.
- Coordination
- Work closely with the Lector Coordinator, Choir Master/Organist and Sacristan.
- Understand the order of each service and anticipate audio requirements.
- Coordinate with visiting clergy or special service participants when required.
- Equipment & Inventory
- Maintain an updated inventory of all audio equipment.
- Ensure equipment is securely stored after use.
- Report damaged, missing or malfunctioning equipment promptly.
- Recommend repairs, replacements or upgrades when necessary.
- Recording & Streaming
- Where authorised, oversee recording or live streaming of services.
- Ensure recordings are clear and properly managed.
- Protect Church equipment and recordings from unauthorised use.
- Maintenance & Contingency
- Arrange periodic testing and servicing of the audio system.
- Maintain essential backup equipment.
- Have a contingency arrangement for microphone or power failure during services.
- Financial Responsibility
- Prepare requirements and estimates for audio-related expenditure.
- Obtain approval before purchases or major repairs.
- Maintain records of equipment purchases and servicing.
Overall Responsibility
The Controller of Audio & Sound is the Parish’s custodian of its audio system and is responsible for ensuring that the spoken Word, prayers, readings, music and other elements of worship are heard clearly, reverently and without any technical interruption. This ministry is the very foundation on which the worship rests when executed to perfection – they have the power to ruin a worship too.
Cecil K. Dewars