Pope Leo XIV has called on church choirs to embrace their role as symbols of unity and synodality within the Church, reminding them that liturgical music is meant to help God’s people “walk together in faith.” The Pope delivered this message during Mass for the Jubilee of Choirs on the Solemnity of Christ the King in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Reflecting on the day’s liturgy, the Holy Father said the Christian journey is one of “praise and joy,” guided by Christ, whose kingship is revealed through self-giving love. “His power is love; His throne is the Cross,” he emphasized.
Music as a Language of Love
Addressing thousands of choristers, Pope Leo highlighted that sacred music is born from love, echoing the words of St. Augustine: “Singing belongs to those who love.” Music, he said, expresses emotions that words alone cannot convey and, within the Church, becomes a “new song” lifted to the Father by the Risen Christ.
Through their ministry, choristers participate as “singers of grace,” helping the faithful experience the joy of new life in Christ
A Choir Is a Model of Synodality
The Pope encouraged choirs to see themselves as examples of communion, unity, and shared mission. Quoting St. Augustine, he invited them to “sing while we walk,” supporting one another along the journey of faith. He also recalled St. Ignatius of Antioch, who described united voices as a symbol of the Church’s harmony.
“From your unity and harmonious love, sing to Jesus Christ,” the Pope said.
Ministry, Not Performance
Pope Leo reminded choir members that their service is not entertainment but a ministry rooted in prayer, humility, and spiritual preparation. “You are not on stage,” he warned, urging choristers to avoid performance-like attitudes that hinder the participation of the faithful.
Instead, choirs should foster communion, even amid inevitable challenges. “A choir is a small family,” he said, one that reflects the wider Church journeying through history with praise on its lips.
The Pope concluded by entrusting all choristers to St. Cecilia, patron saint of musicians, who “sang the most beautiful song of love through her life of total fidelity to Christ.”
Credit: Vatican News
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