As I wrote recently in this paper, ecumenism, the unity between Christian churches, need not entail uniformity in ritual and in song.

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One case in point is of entire standing congregations accompanying the organ, as at St Paul’s Cathedral, in London on formal occasions.

The whole Anglican congregation sings, with the aid of a booklet, including Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip and the royal family.

The sung hymns include The Day Thou Gavest, Lord, Has Ended (five times), Jerusalem (twice), Abide With Me, Crown Him, With Many Crowns, Praise To The Lord, The Almighty, Great In Thy Faithfulness, All Hail The Power Of Jesus (seven times) and many other rousing hymns, all chanted in English.

Latin and Maltese church hymns are no worse, in plainsong and in unison. Yet, the full congregation hardly ever sings.

We Catholics can learn much from other Christian churches.

 

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