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Br Michael Herry fms informed and entertained those in attendance at the Liturgical Music Workshop held on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at Our Lady Help of Christians Church, Wendouree.

The workshop began with music and scripture, setting the scene for a reflective and prayerful evening. Participants Laureen Rhodes and Roger Hillman, were invited to proclaim the readings. Bishop Paul then introduced Br Michael to the group:

Br Michael was born in Lilydale, Victoria, burial place of the first internationally acclaimed Australian, Nellie Melba. It was from his father who played saxophone in a country dance band that Michael was exposed to the joy of music-making at a very young age and it was in Lilydale, at the local Convent of the Sisters of Mercy, that Michael began piano lessons.

After matriculating at Marcellin College (Melbourne) in 1962 Michael entered the Mt Macedon novitiate of the Marist Brothers in Victoria, Australia and in 1965 completed a one year primary teaching registration course.  He then taught primary and junior secondary classes for six years before commencing a music degree at Elder Conservatorium of the University of Adelaide, graduating with honours in 1976. 

After teaching both music and religious education in Marist schools for many years, Michael studied for a Diploma in Pastoral Liturgy in Carlow (Ireland) and since the mid-nineties, has been heavily involved in liturgical music for parishes and schools, both as a composer, choir director and presenter of liturgical music workshops. Br Michael is passionate about the interface between music and spirituality/prayer and has been exploring this sacred space through the composition of short scripture-based chants based on the stories and teaching of Jesus as they come to us in the Sunday Gospels.

The workshop began reflectively, with participants invited into a prayerful space through music and meditation. Thereafter the workshop gained pace, showcasing a wide variety of vocal music suitable for liturgical celebrations. Br Michael encouraged full audience participation as he played various Mass settings, psalms, hymns and scripture based chants. Br Michael’s friendly and relaxed approach to the evening, and his story telling, enabled all in attendance to participate fully and enthusiastically.

Br Michael showcased the Marist Music website, which provides a large range of liturgical music available for free download. There are audio files to listen to the music and sheet music to download. This website is a valuable resource for those in any music ministry in parishes or schools.

The workshop finished with music and prayer, which was read by Rose Consignado. Words of thanks were expressed to Br Michael for sharing his talents and expertise with the group. The workshop was a very enjoyable evening.

The Diocesan Liturgical Commission thanks Fr Marcello Colasante (Parish Priest) and parishioners of Our Lady Help of Christians, Wendouree for hosting this event. Particular thanks to Sue Searls, Corrie Harbour and Laureen Rhodes for their assistance in setting-up and providing hospitality on the evening.

Thanks also to Rose Consignado for the photos.