The Schools Singing Programme in the Archdiocese of Armagh and the Diocese of Dromore held three beautiful Advent Masses in Armagh Cathedral, Newry Cathedral and St John the Baptist Church Portadown recently. Eighteen schools were involved across the two dioceses and the P6 children were singing all mass parts for these unique events. All three masses were celebrated by Archbishop Eamon Martin who himself is a talented musician and composer. His episcopal motto is Cantate Canticum Novum and he has been the driving force behind the Schools Singing Programme in both dioceses.

Referring to the two SSP tutors responsible for these masses, Orla Nugent and Sara-Jane Kelly, one principal stated:
“We all thoroughly enjoyed the Mass yesterday.  The singing was uplifting and perfectly captured the spirit of the Christmas season.  We are grateful to you both for providing the children with this wonderful opportunity!”

Congratulations are also due to Jubilus, the new Cathedral Children’s Choir of Archdiocese of Armagh which featured extensively in this recent BBC 1 programme called Prayer and Reflection.
All the children in the choir are drawn from NSSP school sessions. There was great excitement and it provided brilliant exposure for the new little choristers. To watch the programme please click here.