EDITORIAL

Music for the soul: The core of the Gospel

BY Rafael Armada | EDITOR

AS A South African publication, Worldwide was somehow obliged to dedicate an edition to music, particularly music and spirituality. The country is blessed with amazing musical talent. Music is the soul of South Africa, and it accompanies its people through every joy and sorrow, as Fr Sebothoma states in his article. 

In South Africa, we are privileged to participate in liturgical celebrations where respect and joy blend harmoniously, leading us to almost ‘touch the divine’. Most of the time, the beauty of melodies and voices increases our desire to remain in that ‘musical Mount Tabor’. For instance, often during Holy Eucharist, singing conveys depth and reverence in certain moments, followed by an outpouring of exuberant joy. 

Music, especially through online platforms, has become an increasingly effective tool for evangelization, particularly among the youth. The reader will find various QR codes that lead to video clips of different featured artists. 

This edition appears in the afterglow of the Jubilee of the Choirs, which took place in Rome from November 22 to 23, 2025. Pope Leo XIV, addressing choristers and musicians from all over the world, reminded them:

“Today you show thanks to the Lord for granting you the gift and grace to serve him by offering your voices and talents for his glory and for the spiritual edification of your brothers and sisters. Your task is to draw others into the praise of God and to help them participate more fully in the liturgy through songs that express the joy of new life in Christ. Your ministry requires preparation, commitment, mutual understanding, and, above all, a deep spiritual life, so that when you sing, you both pray and help everyone else to pray.” 

He added: “Singing, in particular, constitutes a natural and refined expression of the human being: mind, feelings, body, and soul come together to communicate the great events of life.” (From Liturgical singing requires ‘a deep spiritual life,’ Pope Leo XIV says. Victoria Cardiel, CNA).

St Augustine encourages us to “sing now, not to enjoy a life of leisure, but to lighten our labours. You should sing as wayfarers do — sing, but continue your journey. Do not be lazy”, St Augustine adds, “but sing to make your journey more enjoyable. Sing, but keep going; making progress in virtue.” (Sermon 256).

During this journey of Advent, St Augustine’s advice is very timely. Singing should lead us to unity, to greater compassion, as voices that help others carry their burdens of life, and share in their joys, pointing towards Christ, our hope. Singing must give us the energy to uproot evil and bring more justice and peace into the world.

From my side, it is a time, at least temporarily, to step back from this service at Worldwide. I am due for a six-month renewal course in Rome in preparation for my silver priestly jubilee. I have, up to now, felt privileged to exercise this ministry for more than five years. I am grateful to all readers and subscribers, contributors, and staff who have made each publication possible. I pass the baton on to Frs Robert N’dungu and Efrem Tresoldi, former Worldwide editor. They will offer new and enriching perspectives through the pages of the publication, and I wish them the best.

To all, blessed Advent and Christmas! God bless you!