Ntaja – The Parish Priest of St. Mary’s Parish, Ntaja, Rev. Fr. Paul Rappozo, has urged parish choirs to remain steadfast in their ministry of animating the liturgy through sacred music, describing singing as an essential expression of the Church’s prayer and worship.
Fr. Rappozo made the call during a parish-wide recollection that brought together choir members from all outstations of the parish. The spiritual gathering was organised amid concerns over growing disunity and weak coordination among some choir groups, challenges largely linked to inadequate structures of leadership and collaboration.
Addressing the choristers, the Parish Priest described the recollection as “a new beginning” aimed at strengthening unity, fraternity, and cooperation among the choirs in the parish.
“This recollection marks a turning point for our choirs to work together in harmony and communion,” he said.
Drawing inspiration from St. Augustine’s well-known expression, “He who sings prays twice,” Fr. Rappozo underscored the theological and pastoral importance of sacred music in the liturgy, in line with the teachings of the Second Vatican Council and its Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium.
He reminded the choristers that their ministry goes beyond musical performance, calling them to become authentic witnesses of the Gospel through their conduct and commitment to prayer.
“A good preacher must first give a good example to others,” Fr. Rappozo said, encouraging choir members to edify the faithful and foster active participation during the Eucharistic celebration.
The Parish Priest further encouraged greater participation in choir festivals and formation activities, describing them as opportunities for learning good liturgical music and promoting unity among choristers.
“Singing for the Lord must always be accompanied by a life of prayer,” he said, urging the faithful to place God at the centre of their lives and ministry.
He concluded by assuring the choirs of continued pastoral support and pledged to sustain similar formative encounters aimed at deepening both the spiritual and musical life of the parish.
At the close of the recollection, choir members elected a new Parish Choir Executive Committee tasked with coordinating choir activities, promoting unity, and ensuring proper preparation for liturgical celebrations in accordance with the directives of the Church.
Communications Office
Diocese of Mangochi