Three music ministers with ties to the Archdiocese of Los Angeles have been recognized with prestigious awards from the National Association of Pastoral Musicians (NPM). The honors celebrate significant contributions to pastoral liturgy and music ministry across the United States.
National Recognition for Liturgical Leadership
John Flaherty has been named the 2026 recipient of the NPM’s Jubilate Deo Award. This honor recognizes his extensive contributions to pastoral liturgy in the U.S.
Flaherty serves as the longtime music director for the Los Angeles Religious Education Congress. Since 2022, he has also acted as a special assistant to the senior vice president of mission at Loyola Marymount University (LMU).
His tenure at LMU includes nearly 30 years as the director of liturgy and music. He founded the pastoral liturgy and music certification programs at LMU’s Center for Religion and Spirituality, where he has mentored hundreds of students.
Advancing Bilingual and Inclusive Music
Husband-and-wife team Rodolfo (Rudy) López and Estela García-López have earned the Pastoral Musician of the Year Award. The couple was honored for their dedicated work in diocesan and parish ministries.
Originally from Los Angeles, the pair is now based in Portland. They are recognized nationally for their work in bilingual liturgical music and their contributions to the “Flor y Canto” music hymnals via Oregon Catholic Press (OCP).
Estela serves as a specialist in music development at OCP, while Rudy has produced numerous recordings. Their published collections include “Brille Tu Luz,” “Cristo No Tiene Pies en el Mundo,” and “Misa Santa Cecilia/Mass of Saint Cecilia.”
The Philosophy of Ministry
Flaherty describes liturgy as “poetry and art,” arguing that it should connect the head to the heart to experience the transcendent. He emphasizes the importance of cultural expression, such as incorporating Tongan language songs to build genuine community.
For the Lópezes, music serves as a source of hope. Estela noted that in communities where ICE presence caused a drop in Mass attendance due to fear, music remains a tool to encourage trust in the Lord.
The three recipients are scheduled to receive their awards during NPM’s 50th anniversary convention, taking place July 20-24 in Washington, D.C.
Looking ahead, the continued mentorship of young ministers—including the Lópezes’ own children who study music at Portland State University—may assist ensure the integrity of the liturgy is maintained by future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What awards were given to the music ministers?
John Flaherty received the Jubilate Deo Award for contributions to pastoral liturgy in the United States. Rodolfo López and Estela García-López received the Pastoral Musician of the Year Award.
Where will the awards be presented?
The honors will be presented during the National Association of Pastoral Musicians’ 50th anniversary convention in Washington, D.C., from July 20-24.
What is the significance of the Lópezes’ work with OCP?
They have published over 90 pieces with Oregon Catholic Press, contributing significantly to the bilingual music repertoire and the “Flor y Canto” hymnals.
How can music be used to build a more inclusive community within a diverse congregation?
