Preaching the words of Jesus Christ through song: Q&A with Megan O'Connor

Tell me about yourself 
I’m originally from Midland, Mich. but have spent most of my life in the Upper Peninsula. My parents are Yoopers and I attended St. Francis de Sales elementary school in Manistique before moving downstate. In 2015 I attended Northern Michigan University and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Communications Studies and a minor in Music. In 2018, after graduation, I worked at WLUC TV6 as the weekend anchor for about a year. During that time, I started to get involved with the St. Peter Cathedral choir, though I was always unable to sing at Mass as I worked Sundays. In Nov. of 2019, I started my current role as the Outreach Coordinator at the Lake Superior Community Partnership and was able to become more involved with the cathedral. In my free time, I sing at the cathedral, swim (My first 2021 swim in Lake Superior was May 15!) and hike. I also volunteer with Connect Marquette, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Marquette County Veteran Alliance, etc. 

You’re a choir member at St. Peter Cathedral. What is your favorite part of singing during the Mass?
When I sing during Mass I feel like I have a part in preaching the words of Jesus Christ, which is a huge honor. 

Who is a person that has influenced your Catholic faith?
My dad is my biggest influence in my faith. He sent my three younger siblings and I to Catholic school, enrolled us in youth ministry programs, encouraged us to sing and altar serve during Mass, and would hold "family meetings" where we would talk about our day, read the Bible and discuss scripture.

Who is your favorite saint?
My favorite saint is St. Christopher, the patron saint of travel. I love to travel and find myself going on road trips frequently. St. Christopher is my favorite saint because my family is connected to him. My cousins, siblings, and I all wear a St. Christopher pendant gifted to us by our grandpa, who has worn a St. Christopher pendant for over 50 years. My grandma swears it will keep us safe, as it has my grandpa, so I never take it off. 

Any advice for today’s Catholics?
Give your problems to the Lord. Trust in Him. He will not test you beyond your strengths. This is something I have been working on and it has reduced a lot of stress in my life.