After concert, pope tells musicians song is pathway to Christ

Published: 2003-11-24

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II was treated to a concert of choral music at the Vatican, and he told the musicians that song was a way to move closer to Christ. The pontiff attended the concert at the Vatican audience hall Nov. 22, the feast of St. Cecilia, traditionally honored as the patron saint of musical performers. "May St. Cecilia accompany each of you from heaven, dear brothers and sisters, and help you fully realize your mission in the church," the pope told the musicians after the performance. The saint, a Roman martyr who according to legend played the organ, "invites believers to walk with vigilance toward the encounter with Christ, gladdening the earthly pilgrimage with the joy of song and music," he said. Some 20,000 musicians and singers came to Rome in mid-November for the International Festival of Sacred Music and Art, held to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Italian St. Cecilia Association. Among those attending were several choirs from the United States.

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