Ray Grant, Music Minister
(Pronouns: He/Him)
Ray Grant has led the Ministry of Music at St. John’s since 1977. A graduate of the Dalhousie University Music Department and the NS Teachers’ College, Ray’s career as been spent in public school music in Nova Scotia. His second career, which ran concurrently, involved music in various churches around the province, where he embraced divergent roles as organist, music director and bass soloist.
When asked what he enjoys most about his work at St John’s, Ray says the best part is working with the adults, children and youth in the weekly choir rehearsals. “The special thing about the music program here is the commitment and talent of the people involved. I have been blessed by people who actually love what we are doing, whether it be singing in one of the choirs, playing in the bells or playing in one of our instrumental ensembles. There is such a pool of talent. I absolutely love church work and have enjoyed my 40+ years here at St. John’s. I love the freedom I am given to use my talents in any way which will forward the work of this congregation. I have worked with four ministers during my time here and have experienced little in terms of constraints. I value the wonderful church music of the past and embrace that which I consider worthy in the music being created for the church today. The St. John’s United Congregation is moving forward and I am proud to be a member of a vibrant team which is helping it do that very thing.”