ANSWER by Mr. Jacob Slavek on November 28, 2003

Dear Bonnie, This is a very important question that is much debated. After having considered all the documents, though, I say that there is no way at all an electric guitar is a "lawfully approved" instrument. The Church does not have a list of specific instruments that are "approved" or "not approved", although a few are mentioned by name. The electric guitar is not one of them, although I believe that once the United States bishops have called for use of a "guitar". I suppose if you were to be as absolutely strict as possible, the only "official" instrument is the male human voice (for chant) although there are many other instruments which are spoken of very highly, including the organ. b) The difference between sacred and secular music must be taken into consideration. Some musical instruments, such as the classic organ, are naturally appropriate for sacred music; others, such as string instruments which are played with a bow, are easily adapted to liturgical use. But there are some instruments which, by common estimation, are so associated with secular music that they are not at all adaptable for sacred use. (n.60) This is from De Musica Sacra et Sacra Liturgia, from the Sacred Congregation for Rites in 1958. In my mind at least there is NO DOUBT that the electric guitar is associated with secular music, and therefore it is "not at all adaptable". I really think that your pastor would not be able to argue against this, especially since the electric guitar has its own origins in secular music. Although this document is fully binding today, your pastor may insist on an "up to date" instruction. Fine, then show him "Musicam Sacram", which essentially says the same thing: In permitting and using musical instruments, the culture and traditions of individual peoples must be taken into account. However, those instruments which are, by common opinion and use, suitable for secular music only, are to be altogether prohibited from every liturgical celebration and from popular devotions.(n.63) Again, I think that this would most certainly include the electric guitar. (and drums and bass and all other rock band instruments) Mr. Slavek.