Singers Gather For First Choir Practice For Papal Performance
By Kristen Johanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- In just two months, Pope Francis will visit Philadelphia for the World Meeting of Families. The first practice for the Papal choir who will sing for the Pope was held at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul in Philadelphia, on Monday night.
When Pope Francis celebrates mass on Sunday, September 27th, he will be serenaded by the 500 voices of the Papal choir.
"It's a great opportunity and a great honor to be part of such a big event. Not just for the Catholic community of Philadelphia and greater Philadelphia but for everyone," said Brandon Moatz, who sings with the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul.
The choir is comprised of the Basilica choir and selected parishioners from across the Delaware Valley.
"You went down, and auditioned. There were three parts to the audition, and finally got in. I have never been so thrilled in my life," said Leslie Miller from Saint Francis Cabrini in Fairless Hills, Bucks County.
For Valerie Baccash, from Saint Margarets in Narberth, there couldn't be a higher honor as a musician.
"Music's been such a big part of my life, and it's the thing that allows me to feel the Catholic religion," she said.
Michael Zubert has been singing in the Cathedral Choir for a few years, and has the inside scoop on what will be performed.
"There is some Beethoven in there, some wonderful masterworks, as well as the liturgy -- some of the response psalms," he said.
For Liz Kretschmer, from Saint Agnes in West Chester, this is an honor.
"I feel really humble, and I feel really thankful. I mean the minute I got that email, a rush of joy just came over me. I'd been praying for it," she said.
Maggie Place added, that she can't wait for the moment she sings for the Pope.
"I am going to be a bundle of nerves, but I think we are all going to come together and we are already sounding really awesome, so a few more weeks of practice and we are going to be on point."
