About the Mississippi Conference on
Church Music & Liturgy

  • The MCCML is an annual gathering for musicians, clergy, and all who are passionate about worship in the Episcopal tradition. For nearly 50 years, we have provided a space for spiritual renewal, musical excellence, education, and community. We welcome participants from all skill levels and backgrounds.

  • The conference is held annually in late July. In 2026, it will be held from July 20–25 at Episcopal Church of the Nativity in Greenwood, Mississippi. Our liturgies and events also take us to other beautiful Delta churches, including St. James' Episcopal Church in Greenville for Evensong on Thursday, July 23.

Registration & Attendance

  • Anyone involved or interested in church music and liturgy! This includes choir members, section leaders, organists, clergy, composers, seminarians, and worshippers who want to deepen their understanding and practice.

  • While we strongly encourage full attendance for the most enriching experience, we offer weekend-only registration options for those who cannot attend the full week. Please see the registration page for details and pricing.

  • We recommend registering as early as possible. Space is limited, and registrations are confirmed in the order payments are received. Specific deadlines and pricing tiers are available on the Registration Page.

The Conference Week:
What to Expect

  • Each day is a blend of worship, rehearsal, and learning:

    • Morning: We begin with Morning Prayer, followed by rehearsals for the conference choir and teaching sessions with our faculty.

    • Afternoon: Time is allotted for more rehearsals, reading sessions (where we explore new music), lecture sessions, and social time.

    • Evening: The day often concludes with dinner and Compline, with special events like the Rose Hill Cabaret on Friday evening.

    The conference follows a Monday through Saturday format this year, with the Closing Eucharist on Saturday morning followed by lunch and farewell.

    View the Full Schedule

  • The conference centers around worship. The week features:

    • Opening Eucharist – Monday, July 20 at 8:00 PM at Church of the Nativity

    • Morning Prayer – Daily at 8:30 AM

    • Compline – Tuesday and Wednesday evenings

    • Evensong – Thursday, July 23 at 5:30 PM at St. James' Episcopal Church in Greenville

    • Closing Eucharist – Saturday, July 25 at 10:30 AM at Church of the Nativity

  • Absolutely! The conference choir is designed to be inclusive. Our talented faculty and conductors work with singers of all abilities. The joy is in making a "joyful noise" together in a supportive environment.

Practical Information

  • Dress is casual and comfortable for the Mississippi summer heat during the day. For worship services, "church casual" or "summer business casual" is appropriate. The Rose Hill Cabaret is a fun, relaxed event—feel free to be creative!

    • Your conference music packet (mailed to you prior to the conference).

    • A water bottle to stay hydrated.

    • Comfortable shoes for walking.

    • A folder for any new music from reading sessions or the music vendor.

    • Your enthusiasm and voice!

  • Yes! We are proud to partner with Lois Fyfe Music, who brings a wide selection of choral and organ music for you to browse and purchase. Reading packets are broken down at the end of the conference, allowing you to purchase individual copies of anthems you loved.

  • We welcome volunteers! If you are interested in serving as a reader, accompanist, or providing a prelude, please sign up at the registration desk or speak with the Conference Director.

  • A beloved conference tradition! It's a fun, informal talent show on Friday, July 24 at 7:00 PM where conferees and faculty share acts—musical, comedic, or otherwise. Attendees are invited to showcase their talents by playing piano, singing, performing on another instrument, doing stand-up comedy, or putting together a skit. You are officially encouraged to perform! Sign-ups are available during the week.

  • Please speak with any member of the Mississippi Conference Staff or Board. For emergencies, the Conference Director's phone number is provided in the conference materials.

Please note: Specific dates, faculty, and locations are subject to change year to year.