YORKSHIRE MARTYRS IN FRANCE

JULY 3rd - 10th, 2006

Yorkshire Martyrs Catholic College Choir led the music for the Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes from 3^rd to the 10^th July 2006. This was the first time a choir from a secondary school had led the music for such important Liturgies and Masses, and they certainly lived up to expectations.

After a long coach journey of 24 hours, the Choir sang at the Pilgrimage Opening Liturgy, attended by all of the youth section of the Diocese of Leeds. In the days that followed, the Choir had the opportunity to take part in the Torchlight Procession, a huge International Mass and Bishop Roche’s “Come and See” Mass (the theme of the process of renewal in our Diocese)

A highlight of the week was definitely taking part in the Blessed Sacrament Procession, when the Choir sang “Rejoice Praises Render” to 20,000  people. The Choir were greatly amused to see Mr. McElroy, the Choir Director, being broadcast on the large screens around the underground Basilica!

During the week, the Choir took part in two concerts. The first took place at Lourdes Parish Church, where the Choir received a standing ovation! The second concert took place in the Rosary Basilica, and we were delighted that Bishop Roche attended the concert. He was extremely impressed by the musical standards!

Towards the end of the Pilgrimage, the Choir travelled out of Lourdes to the city of Tarbes. After some shopping and relaxation, we sang Mass at the Cathedral. The Choir mastered the art of singing all of the Mass music in French and Latin, and were well received by the congregation.

The last day came all too soon, and the Choir led the music for the closing liturgy. All of the Leeds Youth Section took part in singing “The Community Song” with Bishop Roche, which was a fitting end to the Pilgrimage.

After a very busy week, the coach journey back home was very subdued!

For the concert program at Lourdes Parish Church, click here

For the concert program at the Rosary Basilica, click here