Meeting of musicians of the kehillot

At this gathering, we were ten musicians (three from Haifa, a couple from Jaffa, one from Tiberias and four from the Jerusalem) and we were hosted by the Sisters of Bethlehem at Deir Rafat.

We arrived at Deir Rafat on Friday in mid-afternoon. After a round of getting to know one another and an explanation of the program, Father Rafic began with a presentation on the subject of participation in the mass for the players of musical instruments and people who animate the music: how they can fulfill their service and what the importance of playing the instruments and singing is. After dinner, we sat together for a sharing of the Word of God (lectio divina), relating to the entrance of Jesus into the Temple (Luke 2:22-40), and we ended the day with Compline.

On Saturday, we began our day of work with morning prayer. After this, Benny gave a presentation on the subject: “what are the criteria for choosing songs for the mass in general and for festive masses in particular”. An exercise was carried out in choosing songs for the mass in different periods of the year. After a short break, we did some vocal exercises and Tiago (Brother of Sion) taught us to sing the song “Grant us Peace” in canon. At the end of a packed morning, we shared lunch together. In the afternoon, and by request of those present, in order to enrich the repertoire there was a rehearsal of songs that are not known adequately.

Thank you to the Sisters of Bethlehem who hosted us, allowing us to have this meeting.