Through Hymns, With Hymns, and In Hymns
May 27th, 2008 by Joe
I’m happy to announce that I’ve had an article published in the June-July, 2008, issue of Ministry and Liturgy Magazine (Resource Publications) titled “Through Hymns, With Hymns, and In Hymns: the Catechesis of Sacred Music.” The gist of the article is to point out how the hymns we sing at liturgy serve to catechize us and form us in faith. Enjoy.
through-hymns-with-hymns-and-in-hymns.pdf
Liz Says
I have just finished reading your article with much enjoyment. I miss the sacred hymns that were sung and played during mass when I was a child. How wonderful if we could hear them again.
May 27th, 2008 at 8:06 pm
Maura Says
Joe
Great article!
It touched the heart of why I’m constantly using music with in my Teens. and reminds me that we need to incorporate elements of our rich tradition so we have a common language as well as the newer pieces.
I have no idea how you could possibly have narrowed down your list as much as you must have had to. There are so many great hymns. I’m sure this article will spark a flurry of additional suggestions so here are my 2.
“Creed” by Rich Mullins. The song is the apostles creed with the refrain ” I believe what I believe, it makes me what I am, I did not make it, it is making me…” It is great for reflections with teens.
Another song that comes to me is “O God our Help in Ages Past” Strangely it was the song I could’nt get out of my head when 9/11 occured. It was my prayer of hope in those dark days. Somehow I had this passionate feeling at the time that “Amazing Grace” just didn’t fit it the circumstances thought it seemed to be what we heard most of.
My only critcism is that I noticed there wasn’t much that talked to the sacrament of marriage under the second pillar on your list. I think as a church we’re not doing a very good job of talking about the joys of this sacrament. Saddly we’re spending too much time talking about what it is not. Perhaps if our prayerful song on this sacrament permeated our prayer it might help.
Thanks for the thoughtful piece.
Peace
Maura
May 28th, 2008 at 5:59 am
Joe Says
Liz, thanks for your comment. Isn’t it something how the songs of our childhood remain with us throughout our entire lives?!
May 28th, 2008 at 8:05 am
Joe Says
Maura, thanks for your great thoughts. I’m glad to hear that you use music with your teens…they are so into music already! You’re right about “whittling down” the list…that was not easy and it was entirely imperfect. Your suggestions are most welcome and I hope that people grow their own musical curricula! If my article can stimulate creative thinking, then it has accomplished its goal. Thanks.
May 28th, 2008 at 8:08 am