SingCon 2025 Unites Church Musicians in Sacred Song and Fellowship
From October 23–26, 2025, the parish of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, hosted SingCon 2025, an annual gathering for cantors, choristers, choir directors, clergy, and those passionate about the musical heritage of the Ukrainian Greco-Catholic Church. Drawing over 100 cantors and singers from all over North America, this year’s SingCon welcomed participants from Canada, the United States, and multiple eparchies, including the Eparchy of Edmonton.
A Weekend of Music, Prayer, and Learning
The four-day conference featured a rich program: workshops on liturgical music and vocal techniques, mass choir rehearsals, spiritual lectures, and a series of divine services. From the first evening’s Vespers and warm fellowship over dinner, attendees experienced both practical instruction and uplifting prayer.
The second day began with Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Archbishop Borys Gudziak with participating clergy and singers. Morning services set a reverent tone, followed by a welcoming breakfast at Assumption Catholic School. Workshops held throughout the day allowed participants to deepen their musical and liturgical knowledge, capped off by a spiritual public lecture by Hieromonk Herman (Majkrzak) and heartfelt Vespers.
The third day continued with a Panakhyda Service honouring departed faithful and a Town Hall Session led by Archbishop Borys and Bishop Bohdan Danylo. Meals served by parishioners, teachers, and religious sisters fostered ongoing fellowship and gratitude. The evening Vigil filled the church with voices in prayer, anticipation growing for Sunday’s Hierarchical Divine Liturgy.
A Celebration of Sacred Tradition and Community
On Sunday, the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy was celebrated amid incense, stained glass, beautiful icons, and the harmonious singing of participants, clergy, and parishioners, a true testament to the living tradition of church music. The hospitality of Assumption parishioners and Assumption Catholic School, the presence of sisters and clergy, and the joyful community spirit left a lasting impression.
Eparchial Community Joins in Song
Eparchial clergy, singers, deacons, and parishioners from Edmonton were among those gathered, joining voices in choirs and divine services. Their participation underscored the event’s spirit of unity and shared purpose. Captured in photos, these moments reflect a vibrant harmony, where faith, culture, and music come together to strengthen our community.
As SingCon 2025 concluded, thanks were extended to organizers, the host parish, and everyone who made this inspiring gathering possible. The conference continues to inspire church musicians and leaders to elevate the sacred art of singing and to foster a deeper connection in worship across our parishes.
Details from the event provided by Fr. Ivan Turyk. Photos courtesy of SingCon and Andrea Leader.