ORLANDO | Father David Scotchie, pastor of Nativity Parish, blessed a new Allen organ with incense and fanfare Aug. 28, 2026.

The evening opened with music by Jennifer Pascual, the organist of with St. Patrick Cathedral in New York City. She played Fanfare for A Common Man in front of an estimated 200 people gathered for the blessing and special one-hour recital. The organ was an integral part of the first renovation in 30 years. The last updates took place in 1996. Music director Billy Williamson said the organ was a priority and “the first contract signed” for the new space.

“When we would lose a key or a stop, I’d have to take it apart and reassemble it myself,” he said of the old organ that had parts no longer being made. Knowing they could not afford a pipe organ, they sought the next best thing and settled on the Allen after touring the state checking out other options.

For Williamson, the most unique part of the organ installation is the custom speaker array that helps the various sounds the organ produces, be heard throughout the semi-circular shaped sanctuary. The speakers are high and long behind which lie organ chambers forming a sort of “wall of sound.”

He said the past year was spent celebrating three Masses per weekend in the parish hall. Now, to accommodate big crowds, five Masses are celebrated each weekend.

“Everyone sang when we were in the parish hall because the ceilings were low and we could hear each other,” Williamson said.

Even Bishop John Noonan took note “they were all singing.” Williamson was afraid they would lose that, but when they moved to the newly updated sanctuary, the new speakers encouraged participation. “Now, boy they are singing,” said Williamson.The organ and renovation are part of “The Legacy Continues” capital campaign. The $4.2 million renovations project included the organ and tithing of 10% of the funds raised for donation to four charities for capital campaign projects: Pathways to Care, All Souls Catholic School in Sanford, the parish of former Missionary of the Most Precious Blood Nativity pastor, Father Kenneth Schnipke – that suffered a fire earlier in the year, and Life Choices Medical Clinic. The donations are in keeping with the parish’s mission “to make disciples, worship God, witness His love, and serve the poor in the spirit of the saints.”

Watch and hear the new organ by clicking here.

By Glenda Meekins of the Florida Catholic staff, September 4, 2026