Service of rededication/commission of musicians, etc

[Ephrem Feeley]

Yesterday morning, we had a short ceremony of blessing at the end of mass, designed by the PP. It tied in nicely with St Cecilia's Day, which was the day before. Here's the full text:

Blessing of Parish Choirs,
Musicians, Choir Directors and Organists
Feast of St. Cecilia – Ashbourne-Donaghmore Parish 2014

In a special way this weekend, as we celebrate the feast of St. Cecilia, the Patron of Music, musicians and choirs. So, we take this opportunity to honour with gratitude, those involved in Music Ministry here in our Parish. (Invite Choir to stand)

We read in Sacred Scripture:
It is good to praise the Lord
and make music to your name, O Most High,
to proclaim your love in the morning
and your faithfulness at night.

Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord;
let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
Let us come before him with thanksgiving
and praise him with music and song (Psalm 92:1-2; 95:1-2)


Let us pray.
God of Glory,
source of all that is good, all that is true,
keep constant in this choir, its musicians and director,
the conviction that your Spirit works through them
as a sign of praise and thanksgiving,
a sign of hope, assurance, grace, wonder and mystery.
May the splendour of their song give us a glimpse of the beauty of heaven
where our minds and hearts are lifted up in song to You.
May your presence and beauty be found in every note,
and may the words that are sung reach the hearts of your people
so they will draw closer to you.
May all our voices be instruments of your peace, and proclaim your glory in our lives with glad voices.

Bless our brothers and sisters,
who have responded to the needs of our parish
and commit themselves to your service as singers and musicians.
Grant that their ministry may be fruitful
and our worship pleasing in your sight.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

[VML]

Lovely prayers Ephrem.