Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, bless his name; announce his salvation day after day. Tell God’s glory among the nations; among all peoples, God’s marvelous deeds./Cantad al Señor un cántico nuevo; cantad al Señor, toda la tierra. Cantad al Señor, benedecid su nombre; proclamar su salvación día tras día. Contad su Gloria entre las naciones; entre todos los pueblos, sus maravillas.- Psalm 96:1-3
At the end of music class this week with 4th grade, Mr. Turner got a request to play a song his son Jed wrote when he was three. Called “One” the build up to hearing it played is a much fun as hearing the song itself—just ask any of the kids (not just 4th grade) and they will agree.
As Mr. Turner was leading up to the song it made me think how transformative music can be. Here I was, a not very musical person, excitedly waiting for the song to be played. Music, as with other forms of art, helps us to express ourselves in ways we otherwise couldn’t, and I was responding along with the rest of the class. This simple song was giving the 4th graders and myself a different connection to what was around us. It’s not surprising, then, that people will often say music speaks deeply to their soul—even Pope Francis has said, “Singing elevates the soul, making it more sensitive to the voice of the Spirit.”
In Scripture the word "sing" can be found over 400 times with 50 of those times coming as a command. Praying with the Scriptures through singing can connect us more deeply to these sacred words. The book of Psalms in particular are prayers meant to be sung—think how we sing the responsorial Psalm during Mass while the readings are read. If you would like to pray Scripture through song here is a link to the Psalms being sung a cappella: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3FzcS43dqpI. Connect through music and be transformed.
Showcasing SHA talent: Music is a big part of who 4th grader Brielle is as she shows in this picture.
God bless,
Mrs. Alhadef
Campus Minister
4th Grade Aide
Jr. High ELA Aide