Views from the Choir Loft

Judas Iscariot

Fr. David Friel · May 14, 2013

ATTHIAS WAS OSTENSIBLY CHOSEN to replace Judas Iscariot among the Twelve Apostles. Yet, as Matthias probably understood better than any of us, it’s not really possible to replace another person. We can fill their position and assume their duties, but that is a long way from truly replacing the person.

This is a lesson our world needs to learn. A couple of weeks ago, in Boston, the senseless marathon bombings took the lives of 3 spectators. Each of those lives was unrepeatable and irreplaceable.

Yesterday, here in Philadelphia, we heard of the guilty verdict for Kermit Gosnell, who was convicted for the murders of three babies born alive. (The verdict, of course, doesn’t even take into consideration the thousands of unborn babies he also murdered.) Every one of those lives was unrepeatable and irreplaceable.

In two more weeks, our nation will commemorate all the men & women who have died fighting for our country at war. Every one of those lives lost was unrepeatable and irreplaceable.

Matthias was chosen to take over the duties of the twelfth Apostle, but he could never actually replace Judas Iscariot. We ask for the special prayers of St. Matthias today, that we and all the world might have a renewed appreciation for the preciousness of every human person.

About Fr. David Friel

Ordained in 2011, Father Friel served for five years as Parochial Vicar at St. Anselm Parish in Northeast Philly. He is currently a doctoral candidate in liturgical theology at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.

Sacred Music Symposium • “What We Avoid”

I wish we had to time to discuss artwork at the Sacred Music Symposium, but there’s just not enough time. At this year’s conference in June, we will sing an absolutely incredible Magnificat setting by Father Francisco Guerrero (d. 1599). If you examine the part books, you will notice a marvelous aesthetic desire to avoid the same capital letter—for the sake of beauty. Do you see how the Part Books find a way to avoid repeating the Capital G twice, by using the word “Superius” (which is roughly analogous to “Soprano”)? Breathtaking!

—Jeff Ostrowski

“Abraham” • Guerrero Imitates His Teacher

Father Francisco Guerrero (d. 1599) studied music with Father Cristóbal de Morales circa 1545. He taught himself the organ. On 3 April 1542 he was engaged as a contralto by Seville Cathedral at an annual salary of 12,000 maravedís. He remained there until 1546, when, at the age of only 17, he was invited—on the recommendation of Father Morales—to become mæstro de capilla of Jaén Cathedral. He was entrusted with the boarding, lodging, and instruction of the six choirboys; but he neglected this duty and was sentenced to be dismissed on 30 August 1548. However, he was absolved and reinstated on 3 November. I think you can see (perhaps) a little homage to his teacher on the word “Abraham.”

—Jeff Ostrowski

Too much music!

Choosing music for the Sacred Music Symposium requires careful consideration. We make sure (always) to have great variety. Because the schedule is so full, there’s never sufficient time to discuss the music fully—indeed, we could easily do a month-long seminar on each piece! For example, last year Dr. Calabrese conducted a setting of the Magnificat by Father Guerrero (d. 1599). It is one of the most magnificent (pardon the pun) pieces ever written, and I wish I had time to point out the brilliant way he syncopates the word “dispersit,” which means “He has scattered” or “He has dispersed.” Superb!

—Jeff Ostrowski