By Dana Robinson
Toward the beginning of this year, this column reported on an international organization which in recent years has been enjoying a renaissance in this country: the International Federation of Pueri Cantores.
Readers can refresh their recollection of this world-wide organization by visiting its site at www.pcchoirs.org. Rooted in Europe in the early part of the last century and now recognized by the Vatican as an official organization of youth within the Catholic Church, the International Federation is comprised of 40,000 singers in 37 countries. Its affiliate, the American Federation of Pueri Cantores, includes 3,500 singers in more than 200 choirs from parishes and schools around our country.
During this past July 4th holiday, the 38th International Congress of Pueri Cantores convened in Washington, D.C., for a five day celebration – the first time in the United States – and it was an unforgettable manifestation of the power of liturgical music. Cardinal Donald Wuerl celebrated the closing Mass at the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and the contribution of these young choristers from around the world was overwhelming.
As a gift to yourselves in these final days of Advent, why not experience the numinous and take a few minutes to view some or all of the video clip linked here? You will be overcome by this ineffable culmination of praise, thanksgiving and joy.
And, on behalf of the Trustees of the National Catholic Community Foundation, please, accept our best wishes for a wonderful Christmas and for a new year brimming with grace and – of course, for that music one hears as the Kingdom advances.