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“Teach each other, and advise each other, in all wisdom. With gratitude in your hearts sing psalms and hymns and inspired songs to God.”

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‍Last Saturday, musicians from the various communities of the new Parish of Brighton & Hove met in the beautiful chapel of Cardinal Newman School for a day of music-making and formation, organised by Brother Anthony Brockman OSB and Jane Noble (Chaplain at Cardinal Newman), and led by Catherine Christmas, diocesan Liturgy & Music Adviser.

Together, they explored Psalm settings and songs for the coming weeks of the liturgical year, including the Solemnity of St Philip Howard, the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica (both of which replace the Ordinary Sundays), and the season of Advent. The gathered musicians also looked at Communion songs and various Mass settings, considering the liturgical context and ways of introducing new music in our communities.

There was plenty of time for conversation and socialising over refreshments at the beginning of the day and at lunchtime, including cakes to celebrate coming together as members of the new parish  - “called together as members of one body” as they heard in the reading from Colossians during the opening prayer. This getting to know each other was a highlight of the day (along with a singing dog!), and there are plans to meet again to share resources and good practice, and to continue building relationships.

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If you would like to host a similar session in your parish, please contact Catherine on E: catherine.christmas@abdiocese.org.uk