I had the privilege of attending the National Catholic Educational Association opening liturgy. I, along with my brothers and sisters from the Strake & St. Agnes Mixed Chorus, led the laity in song throughout the mass. The NCEA's mission is: "Rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) is a professional membership organization that provides leadership, direction, and service to fulfill the evangelizing, catechizing, and teaching mission of the Church." Their job is to coordinate Catholic unity throughout America. This year's meeting was important because it was the first time ever to be held in Houston. Bishops and priests from local and far-away dioceses were all represented as over forty separate states were in attendance. It was both an honor and a joy to sing for the leaders of both the Church and for all the teachers who enjoyed this wonderful event.