Photo: ALBERTO PIZZOLI / AFP / Getty Images
Members of the Church of St. Paul the Apostle choir from New York City had a once-in-a-lifetime experience on Wednesday when they performed an original song for Pope Leo at the Vatican. The choir, based in the Upper West Side, sang "Love More," a piece adapted from Pope Leo's first speech and inaugural homily. This performance marked the first time the choir sang in St. Peter's Square during a general audience.
Father Eric Andrews, present at the event, described the moment as "spectacular," emphasizing the significance of the experience for the choir and the parish. The 45-member choir had been touring Italy and concluded their trip with this memorable performance. According to Father Chris Lawton, the choir was unexpectedly invited to sing right in front of the pope's chair, a moment described as a "pinch-me" experience by those involved.
The choir's journey to perform for the pope began with uncertainty, as they reached out to the Vatican without any guarantees. However, their dedication and talent were rewarded when they were invited to perform in front of thousands of people from around the world. Father Andrews expressed that sharing their gift so generously would bring back "a hundredfold" in blessings and joy.
The event was covered by ABC7NY, highlighting the choir's remarkable journey and the significance of their performance.
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