Regarding “Why Catholics Will Want to Sing Again” (Sept. 26-Oct. 2):

I have noticed that a number of Catholic publications, including the Register, have printed articles and editorials concerning the state of Church music — suggesting a growing or continued concern by the faithful about the state of the liturgy. The state of music, liturgy and the arts in the United States has alienated and caused disheartenment with many Roman Catholics. This should never have been the case.

The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy gives guidelines, but they are ignored by most parish music directors today. Unfortunately, the overall appreciation of the fine arts has waned in recent years. The only solution to this problem is by continued exposure to the fine arts by children — particularly sacred music. The art of sacred music can have enormous spiritual benefits to the soul, but not necessarily in an instant. All of the recent popes have referred back to St. Pius X's Motu Proprio on sacred music, Tra le Sollecitudini. It is the only concrete and practical guide to discern what constitutes sacred music. This document, too, is largely ignored (if not refuted) by most parish music directors today. The phrase “active participation” is what I believe is the source of the problem.

It is suggested by many “liturgists” that people cannot be completely involved in the sacrifice of the Mass if they do not physically use their voice and ramble through every “congregational” part of the Mass. Perhaps the words “consummate participation” should be examined and adopted by the Church. “Active participation” is far too limiting. The profane (secular) musical styles, which are used in many churches today, are categorically opposed to the purpose of music in the liturgy. St. Pius X warned of the influence of theatrical and sentimental music, which became prevalent in his time.

It is already sad that many Catholics do not have the opportunity to reap the benefits of authentic, sacred Catholic music. I hope the art of sacred music can be re-discovered and re-used in our liturgy today.

As far as “why Catholics can't sing”: Congregational singing was never a significant part of our tradition. Many Protestant traditions lacked the completeness of the Mass and Eucharist and filled the void with hymns. Also, just as not everyone is a musician, so not everyone should be forced to sing. Some people benefit far more, and absorb far more, by listening than by using their own tongues.

Steven M. Anisko

Director of Music

St. Mary of Mercy Church

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania