A Franciscan Musician

Although he was not a musician, St. Francis of Assisi was a "musical" saint. There was a joy, a passion, a poetry in his love of God. One need only think of his stick violin and his dancing to see the music in his spirituality.

Although my own musical involvement predates my formation with the Secular Franciscans, I see music as part of my own Franciscan spirituality.

I currently belong to two groups at church - the regular Sunday choir, and Rock of Faith.

With the choir, I play guitar (yes oh traditionalists, that horrid instrument), and sing with the basses. The main instruments for the choir are the piano and the organ - though we do have two guitars (traditionalists shudder) and a bass (Horrors: A nun on electric bass, no less). The choir sings a mix of songs. Gregorian, traditional, contemporary "classical", and some contemporary. It's a nice mix, and the vocals and harmonies are sometimes wonderful.

Rock of Faith is more up-tempo. The kind of music you might hear at a rally at the Franciscan University at Steubenville. Keyboard, acoustic guitar (me), electric guitar, electric bass, and drums are the main instruments, with occasional flute, saxophone and other percussion. The main vocals are supplied by a woman and two teen girls. The keyboardist and I sometimes sing lead, and we provide the "male" backups to the main singers.

The main choir sings for most Masses. Rock of Faith plays once a month, usually for youth/school Masses. We've already been requested to play at two other churches as well, though nothing in stone yet.

I like both groups. I'm not a musical purist or absolutist. I don't think there is any one "proper" way to sing at Mass. Both groups fill needs, and the focus of both is on worship.

The music must be appropriate, done with reverence, and done well (but not necessarily "professionally"). Other than that, I think whatever helps to enhance the worship is fine.

Just as there are so many cultures around that can add richness and variety to worship, so can music. And I see no problem in taking advantage of that variety and richness.

There has already been mention of me providing music at some of the Secular Franciscan meetings. To be honest, I am not familiar enough yet with the music that's sung (accompanied by recordings), but I can see me playing eventually for Masses and some meetings once I get to know the songs better. I play by ear and familiarity- my sheet music reading skills are rudimentary.

Some purists might say that I'm not qualified to play at church because I don't have the formal training and the technical know how. Nonsense. I play well enough that I don't offend and can lead people in song, and have even composed some songs.

I would play even if it meant just picking up two sticks and dancing with delight for my Lord.