An Assembly that Sings

One of my joys as I have become the Pastor of St. John Fisher is the fact that the worshiping community sings. I have an assembly that sings. I have been at many English-speaking parishes and of all of them, this is the one that stands out for singing along with the cantors and choir.

Augustine wrote that “cantare amantis est” – “to sing is the act of one who loves.” Elsewhere he says that the person who sings praise not only praises, but praises joyfully and in singing, loves the one whom he sings about. So, singing is an essential part of our Sunday liturgies as we rejoice and voice our gratitude to the Lord who continually showers us with his blessings and mercies. I am writing this message to encourage the entire community to continue to learn, familiarize and participate in the singing within our liturgies. Liturgy means festive celebration. We, at St. John Fisher, are privileged to have and outstanding Music Director, Janice Reska, the Adult Choir and the children’s Choir skillfully led by Jim Henderschedt. Let us continue to be a community that reveals its thanksgiving, faith, hope and love by singing the praises of the Lord at Holy Mass. Thank you all for making our liturgies more festive and warm!