The Schola Cantorum of the National Shrine of Saint Francis of Assisi in San Francisco

A detail from a painting by Giovanni Cimabue, in the lower level of the Basilica at Assisi.

The National Shrine of Saint Francis of Assisi in San Francisco

The Schola Cantorum

The Schola Cantorum draws both upon the wealth of the Catholic tradition of sacred music and the spirit of liturgical renewal and recovery that characterized the activity of the Second Vatican Council. The Schola Cantorum leads the congregation in hymns, responses, psalms, and spiritual canticles. Moreover, the Schola Cantorum regularly sings polyphonic and chant settings of the Ordinary of the Mass, uniting our congregation with the choirs of angels and saints throughout the centuries.

During the Sunday Office of Vespers, through which we offer praise to God, the Schola Cantorum sings some of the most beautiful music of Christian culture, composed over the centuries for the evening prayer of the Church. Following the sure guidance of the Schola, everyone is invited to join with strong voice in the liturgy’s hymns, psalms and responses.

The Schola Cantorum sings for the 12:15 PM Solemn mass for Sundays and Solemnities and for Sunday Vespers at 3:15 PM. Throughout the year, the Schola Catorum sings for many other liturgies and concerts as well.

For the complete schedule, see our Current Events Calendar.