VATICAN
CITY, DEC. 5, 2005 (Zenit.org).-
Benedict XVI appealed for greater attention to sacred liturgical
music, in a message sent to the prefect of the Congregation for
Divine Worship and the Sacraments.
In
his brief message to Cardinal Francis Arinze, the Pope greeted
the participants in a day
of study organized today by that Vatican
dicastery on the topic "Sacred Music: A Liturgical and
Pastoral Challenge."
The congress was responding to Pope John Paul II's desire, expressed
in a 2003 chirograph, in which he called the dicastery to intensify
its efforts in the field of sacred liturgical music.
"Echoing the call of my beloved predecessor, I would like
to encourage those who cultivate sacred music to continue this
journey," said Benedict XVI said.
In particular, the Holy Father suggested that the Vatican congregation
reflect "on the relationship between music and liturgy, while
remaining attentive to practical applications and experimentation,
and maintaining constant understanding and collaboration with national
episcopal conferences."
When opening the congress, Cardinal Arinze explained: "Sacred
music must be in accord with the grandeur of the liturgical act
that celebrates the mysteries of Christ; it must be characterized
by a sense of prayer, beauty and dignity."
Vatican Radio
quoted him saying: "In no way must it give
way to shallowness, superficiality or theatricality."
|