Nothing can annoy people more at Mass it seems than the ‘wrong sort’ of music. There are regular little spats in the Catholic press by partisans of all persuasions complaining about hymns, songs, words, and music. Some yearn nostalgically for the beauty of the Latin Mass, while others argue that only modern music can keep youngsters coming to the celebration. This division is unfortunate to say the least. Next Friday we celebrate the feast of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians. Perhaps a few thoughts about music are in order.

The first is that Sunday Mass should be sung. It’s a celebration of faith and should seem like one. Singing lifts our hearts and minds and marks out our assembly as different from other gatherings. As St. Augustine says: ‘The one who sings prays twice’.

The second is that the music should be the best that the community has to offer. This will vary from place to place. What’s important is that the music of the Mass shows that we’re giving our best to God.

The third point to note is that the music needs to fit the nature of the congregation involved in the celebration. Differences in age, culture and perception affect the impact of music. The music used at Mass should be sensitive to the needs of those celebrating.

The Church has a wealth of music at its disposal. There is a place for it all. May St. Cecilia’s prayers ensure that what we sing unites us rather than divides us, and make our communities vibrant signs of faith. P.D.