MADISON — The Christmas season is a time when people open their hearts to God and their neighbor, noted Bishop Robert C. Morlino in his remarks at the “Lessons and Carols” performance on Sunday, Dec. 19, at the Bishop O’Connor Center.
Bishop Morlino urged people to take it upon themselves to bring the Good News of Jesus to people at Christmas time. “Let us give a beautiful witness to the joy and love of God and our neighbor,” he said.
He thanked the Diocesan Choir, director Dr. Patrick Gorman, and organist Glen Schuster for helping people “get in the mood spiritually to celebrate Chrisitmas.”
Bishop Morlino wished everyone filling the O’Connor Center chapel a “very blessed and merry Christmas and health and deep faith in the new year.”
The Diocesan Choir offered those attending a wonderful opportunity to step back from the hectic pace of holiday preparations and spend time reflecting on the meaning of the Advent and Christmas seasons.
Nine readers read lessons from Scripture, followed by songs sung by the choir. The congregation joined in signing the processional song, “O come, all ye faithful,” and the closing song, “Joy to the world.” They also sang along with the choir on the Marian hymn, “Immaculate Mary,” as well as on the carol, “Good Christian friends, rejoice!”
Readers included Debby Del Ciello, Winnie Lacy, Dr. Richard Carr, Kristin Sleeth, Lisa Schreiner, Brendan Anderson, Margaret Bomber, Tom Nelson, and Bishop Morlino.
The Diocesan Choir dedicated this “Lessons and Carols” to Bishop George O. Wirz, retired auxiliary bishop and long-time supporter and friend of the choir, who died recently.
Many people attending “Lessons and Carols” brought food items and cash which were given to the Catholic Multicultural Center in memory of Bishop Wirz.
The Diocesan Choir announced that its spring concert will be held Friday, April 8, 2011, at 7:30 p.m. at the Bishop O’Connor Center. It will feature choral masterworks of the Church, including Mass No. 2 in G-major by Franz Schubert and Vesperae Solennes de Confessore by W.A. Mozart.
For more information about the Diocesan Choir and to make donations, visit www.diocesanchoir.org