Catholic Campus Ministry (CCM) at Old Dominion University

Why do we sing?

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of immeasurable value.  An integral part of the solemn liturgy is a combination of sacred music and words (CCC #1156).

God has bestowed upon his people the gift of song.  God dwells within each human person, in the place where music takes its source.  God, who is the giver of song, is present whenever his people sing his praises.  A cry from deep within our being, music is a way for God to lead us to the realm of higher things.

As St. Augustine says, “Singing is for the one who loves.”  Music therefore is very personal.  Also, song has both an individual and communal dimension, so when we all sing together at church, we express that sacramental presence of God to his people so well!  This sung expression of faith within liturgical celebrations strengthens our faith when it grows weak and draws us into the divinely inspired voice of the church in prayer.  Faith grows when it is well expressed in celebration (USCCB).

 

Sources:
Catechism of the Catholic Church
USCCB. Sing to the Lord: Music in Divine Worship