Come and Sing!

Music is the language of the Soul. St. Augustine once said, “he who sings prays twice.” In the liturgy, music is a form of prayer. As such, it is an essential part of the liturgy; it is the most excellent mode of expression in the liturgy; it expresses the festivity of God’s people who celebrate His wonderful deeds. As a medium of expression, music helps to build community and to create unity in the assembly.

Building such unity, the Redemptorist community in Davao responded for such a vibrant participation in every liturgical celebration. Thus, involvement of its members in music ministry is part of the Redemptorist Formation Program. Since June this year, the students hold a regular music practice every Friday night with the giftedness of Mr. Roman Casayas, the choir master of The Choristers of the Sacred Heart. An essential preparatory element for every song practice is the vocalization which is done in every session. He teaches the group with much enthusiasm and patience for both secular and liturgical songs.

By personal choice and as per personal capacity, the students were grouped according to voice. The groupings, thus, are Tenor I, Tenor II, Bass I and Base II. In addition, another grouping – also in four groups – is organized to take charge in the singing sponsorship for the weekly students’ mass in the community and in the parish church. Each has an organist, a guitarist and song leaders. They select the appropriate songs; and thus, that the songs be familiarized, a community music practice with the group in-charge is expected a week before. So, for instance, the group assigned for next week will spearhead in the community music practice this week.

Being a part of the music ministry is one of service – service to the Word and service to the People of God. The Redemptorist Community in Davao will continue to lead the Christian community to prayer with the liturgical music. Thus, each is encouraged to participate actively in creating an atmosphere of a prayerful community. Indeed, music has brought us together! And when we sing in harmony, music will make us one! Come and sing along!

(Dennis)