By Father Joseph Chan Wing-chiu
In the past month, I have had several opportunities to participate in different music concerts in different places. The first was the performance by various orchestras of Good Hope School, including the Chinese orchestra, string orchestra, percussion orchestra and symphony orchestra. The students’ brilliant performances were truly delightful.
The other two occasions were at the cathedrals of different Christian denominations. One was a performance by outstanding young musicians at St. John’s Cathedral of the Anglican Church, where eight individuals from different countries collaborated seamlessly, playing various stringed instruments to create an enchanting musical atmosphere. The second was a concert at our own Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception to celebrate the 87th birthday of Pope Francis. In contrast to the previous performances, this one featured an entire family performing, with parents and children playing instruments together. Additionally, there were exceptional vocalists with unparalleled singing voices, leading everyone into the atmospheric world of music.
Although these three concerts were performed by different people, I experienced the same inexplicable emotion. Listening to the performances of these music enthusiasts, I felt deeply moved in my heart, and tears welled up in my eyes unexpectedly. I was moved by the sincere love for music and the willingness to share it with others, creating moments of profound beauty.
Through the concrete expression of truth, goodness, and beauty in these performances, I realised that what moved me was the presence of God hidden behind it all. He shared his truth, goodness, and beauty with us, especially through music, touching the depths of our souls and making us aware that he is with us. This feeling transcends differences in race, language, culture, and colour. The entire human race shares the same blessings and gifts.
When God created humanity in his image and likeness, He also endowed us with the ability for artistic creation and appreciation, including what we call the arts. Whether it’s music or any other form of artistic expression, it contains the truth, goodness, and beauty of God. Have you ever noticed that every ritual carries a distinct artistic atmosphere? Different seasons bring different colours, the selection of sacred music, the tones and arrangements of flowers, and even the overall design of a church—all exhibit various artistic elements. Whether you open your eyes or not, you can discover these artistic vibes surrounding your life.
Speaking of this, a song I learned in my youth comes to mind. It was a theme song from a movie. I hope that you, too, can discover the creation of God and the creativity of humanity in your life, allowing yourself to live in “the sound of sacred music” everywhere.
May you also, during this joyful season of the Saviour’s birth, allow yourself to be immersed in the wonderful music and the melody. Additionally, may the Lord compose a beautiful symphony for your life.
