Meet California-based Artist Dr. Manolito S. Jaldon Jr.
Dr. Manolito S. Jaldon Jr. is a liturgical pianist/organist and writer based in West Sacramento, California. A Benedictine Oblate, he also serves as the director of the Lasallian Student Life Office at Christian Brothers High School in Sacramento. You can find out more about him on his blog, Instagram, and X.
CATHOLIC ARTIST CONNECTION: Where are you from originally, and what brought you to your current city?
DR. MANOLITO S. JALDON JR.: I was born in San Francisco, grew up in Vallejo, and now reside in West Sacramento. My family has lived in West Sacramento for about 6 years.
How do you understand your vocation as a Catholic artist?
Serving as a pianist and organist since high school, my vocation is to lead the gathered assembly in prayer through music. My mission is to facilitate a deep liturgical experience, helping others glorify God through our shared sacrifice of praise.
Where have you found support in the Church for your vocation as an artist?
Throughout my career, I have collaborated with a diverse network of clergy, musicians, and liturgical ministers to elevate the worship experience. Together, we have cultivated a rich variety of musical expressions, fostered a culture of shared best practices, and provided mutual professional support.
How can the Church be more welcoming to artists?
I envision a Church that invests in the formation of artists, offering resources to strengthen their craft and commissioning them to bring beauty into local parishes. I want to see parishes act as hubs for conversation, where artists explore the connection between artistic beauty and divine encounter.
Where in your city do you regularly find spiritual fulfillment?
Since moving to West Sacramento, my family has found a spiritual home at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. Its stunning architecture is truly captivating, while the dedicated music ministry elevates every Mass into a profound prayer experience. It is a beautiful, peaceful place and an absolute must-visit in Sacramento. Every day, the Cathedral community serves the poor of Sacramento, providing a Brown Bag Lunch.
How have you found or built community as a Catholic artist in your city?
I am deeply committed to the power of small faith groups. Since the pandemic, I’ve met daily with a diverse online community comprising artists, clergy, and laypeople in the Sacramento area. They have been a lifeline of spiritual support. These daily gatherings serve as a sacred space for prayer, building each other up, and sharing life. It is a powerful reminder that I am in good company, walking alongside others in our faith journey each day.
What is your daily artistic practice?
A daily commitment to artistic practice is paramount. Amidst the relentless loving grind of family life, I wake up early to practice sight-reading, read, and free-write. These daily rituals keep me engaged and ensure slow, steady growth. This consistent practice fosters a sense of curiosity, pushing me to ask questions and seek answers every day. We never stop learning.
Describe a recent day in which you were most completely living out your vocation as an artist.
Serving the student musicians at Christian Brothers High School has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I serve them as the Director of the Lasallian Student Life Office. One responsibility is preparation for liturgies and prayer services. I have had the opportunity to serve them as they prepare music for liturgies. Supporting their artistic growth allows me to pass on the invaluable wisdom and techniques I was mentored in by my own teachers, honoring that legacy by investing in the next generation.
What are your top 3 pieces of advice for Catholic artists post-graduation?
1. Never stop being curious about God, life, and liturgy. Keep reading and writing. It will be a source of renewal and help you pivot the journey when needed.
2. Always be mindful of God's loving presence. God is never absent.
3. Live in gratitude for your craft. In good and bad days, remember that everything is gift.