sentimental in Seattle
By Diogenes (articles ) | April 03, 2003 8:34 AM
In a remarkable display of ecumenical sensitivity, the Archdiocese of Seattle has banned the singing of "The Old Rugged Cross," the hymn composed by the Methodist minister George Bennard in 1913.
The reason? Are Seattle liturgists suddenly inflamed with zeal for Gregorian chant and sacred polyphony, which were so highly regarded by the fathers of the Second Vatican Council? No. According to a long list of new liturgical directives , "Music planners should avoid selections that offer facile sentiment, as the spirit of the ritual of veneration has no place for this type of music or song. Therefore, 'The Old Rugged Cross' is unsuitable, as well as some other pieces that seem to have become standard fare for the veneration of the cross in the United States."
If this hymn's "facile sentiment" leads to its interdict, then oughtn't every hymnal that contains "Here I am, Lord" and "On Eagle's Wings"-- every Oregon Catholic Press music issue, every Glory and Praise songbook-- be consigned to the bonfire of the vanities?
|
An appeal from our founder, Dr. Jeffrey Mirus: Dear reader: If you found the information on this page helpful in your pursuit of a better Catholic life, please support our work with a donation. Your donation will help us reach five million Truth-seeking readers worldwide this year. Thank you! |
Easter Campaign: Progress toward our Spring 2013 goal ($20,923 to go):
$80,000.00
$59,077.50
26%
74%
|
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
