Monday 22 November 2010
Today is St Cecilia's day. Now, depending on your point of view that might mean lots to you or very little. As a Baptist I'm not big on saints, so I had to do my homework on this one. I have to say, though, I'm glad that I did.
Cecilia was born and raised in a privileged home in Ancient Rome. Her father was a man of Christian faith, who brought her up to believe those same things. On the day she was married she persuaded her new husband and her brother to join her in her beliefs. This angered the Governor of the city so much that he had them both executed forthwith. When Cecilia refused to renounce her faith not one or two but three attempts were made to execute her. Throughout these trials she kept a song in her heart and refused to be silenced. By this stage she had become renowned for her musical ability, and is credited with the invention of the pipe organ. With its depth of sound and its harmony of chords and notes, she felt that it represented truly harmonious praise to God.
Since the 16th Century Cecilia has been honoured as the patron saint of music. Her courage and her refusal to silence the music of her faith have been an inspiration to generations of musicians.
I think it was the original Wolf Cub movement which declared that a "boy scout should be cheerful and whistle under all circumstances" St Cecilia would have been proud. But it's not always possible, is it? When the world around is dark or life itself seems heavy - taking a tune on your lips is the last thing you feel like doing. On those days I thank God for the gift of music. I thank God for the jazzy songs which wake me up when I'm feeling dozy. I thank God for the mellow tunes which capture my mood when I'm feeling thoughtful. And I thank God too for the majestic swell of the classical greats which move the heart and mind. When I can't put a song on my lips or in my heart - these people can do it for me.
I'm not sure what old St Cecilia would have thought of Benny Bjorn, Agnetha and Annifrid - but along with the Swedish bunch I definitely want to say "thank you for the music".
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