In our church we are increasingly looking to the older people of the parish to help as eucharistic ministers, church cleaners, leaders of prayer groups, flower arrangers, organists, members of the choir and anything else they are called upon to assist with.
It seems younger people are not willing to commit to these roles. While recognising that their lives are busy, I am sure they would find untold rewards in serving the Lord and his people in however menial the task.
I have noticed the delight and satisfaction of the lady who regularly polishes the tabernacle and brass altar candlesticks at our church. It has become a devotion for her, and she guards the task in case it isn’t done properly by someone else.
When I was new to the parish, I was asked if I would be interested in joining the choir which consisted of eight people, all older. Although I loved to sing along with the congregation on Sundays, I did not class myself as a singer as I often sang flat. After explaining this to the choir master, he still persuaded me to join.
The choir met one morning a week at the home of one of the members. I was quite nervous when I turned up to the first practice and thought they would soon discover I could not sing. I joined in with the sopranos and to my surprise it was not long before I managed to harmonize with them.
After practice we all enjoyed morning tea looking out to a wide expanse of sea and lakes as we listened to the call of the bellbirds from the wonderful surrounds of our hostess’s home.
From then on I went to practice every week and sang in the choir on Sundays, at special Masses and funerals. I enjoyed singing so much that I joined another church choir as well which entertained at nursing homes and local council events. I now think, if I hadn’t been willing to commit to the choir, how much I would have missed out on. I made so many good friends and discovered I really could sing when I believed in myself.
“I can do all things in Christ,
which strengtheneth me.”
It is a delight to arrive at Mass after a week full of cares to find some kind soul has adorned the church with fresh flowers to create an atmosphere of celebration of our Lord’s presence.
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