Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Back in February, in one of my weekly letters, I wrote that we are planning a special observance of the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ from June 1 to 4. As our part of the U.S. Bishops’ program of Eucharistic Renewal, we are offering all of us an opportunity to celebrate the unique gift of the Eucharist.
We will begin with a special concert by our choirs, one which will close out the choral season, titled O Sacrum Convivium! (‘O Sacred Banquet’): Choral Meditations on the Eucharist. The title comes from a Latin prayer, which in English is translated: “O sacred banquet! in which Christ is received, the memory of his Passion is renewed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.”
Gabriel Löfvall and I have assembled a beautiful concert program for Saturday, June 1st, which will showcase a rich tapestry of music, starting with timeless Gregorian chants, masterful Renaissance and Baroque compositions, and powerful 20th century works. The evening will culminate with Mozart’s Litaniae de venerabili altaris sacramento, K.125, (Litany of the venerable sacrament of the altar), a profound reflection on the Holy Eucharist.
This special evening will feature performances by the Gallery Choir, Bass Clef and Treble Clef Choirs, along with guest instrumentalists. Together, they will bring the theme of the Eucharist, the Bread of Heaven, into its artistic realm with an array of choral works, organ music, chamber ensemble pieces, and selections of poetry.
So, I encourage you to plan to join us and immerse yourself in the tapestry of sacred music that spans the centuries, offering us inspiration and hope. Experience how the spiritual essence of the Eucharist has been captured and expressed through the universal language of music.
Blessings on your week ahead!
Fr. Tim Shreenan, O.F.M., Pastor