Sacred Music, Modern Life

As we busily prepare for our workshop this weekend, I just happened to revisit a video from last year's workshop--fond memories!--which has scenes from rehearsal and the final liturgy. But there is a moment here that people on this blog will especially appreciate because it is filled with a sort of irony.

About two thirds the way through, we are singing Sicut Cervus by Palestrina live in liturgy, in this parish in the round in the heart of Dixie. That alone might strike many as unusual. The music is wonderful of course, and the flames from candles in the sanctuary are burning brightly. The celebrant walks forward to received the gifts during offertory. He is followed immediately by two altar girls with long, flowing hair! Modern Catholic life!

Something charms me about it all, if only because it demonstrates that truly sacred music belongs in every parish.