Last Thursday, 15 June, around 80 children from across the Diocese of Motherwell formed the choir for a Mass of Thanksgiving which celebrated the achievements of the Diocese’s Schools Singing Programme.

The children were drawn from four schools on the outskirts of Glasgow, including St Benedict’s Primary School. Geraldine Parkinson, headteacher at the school, explained:

‘The introduction of the weekly singing sessions and choir in St Benedict’s Primary has been a very welcome addition to our school. We always strive to find ways to develop all of the God given skills and talents of our pupils and this has been a fabulous opportunity to do just that. Our children often do not have the confidence or self-esteem in themselves so the opportunities through singing at Mass, supporting our school Sacraments and performing at school assemblies and prestigious events like the Caritas Awards has provided our children with self-belief that they are important members of our school and parish community and have allowed them to take pride in themselves and their talents! We have seen the children blossom before our very eyes!

‘We look forward to the incredibly exciting journey ahead and pledge our commitment to the programme as we can see how much joy and pleasure it brings to our pupils, staff, parents and wider community!’

Monica McEwan, whose two sons sing in one of the choirs founded as part of the Programme, described the impact of the Programme:

‘Being part of the choir has brought my children great joy and they regularly burst into song in the house which is a great testimony to their love of being part of the choir. I believe the singing programme greatly impacts a child’s confidence …both my sons commented that they did not feel nervous AT ALL performing at the Armadillo. The lessons have definitely improved their singing intonation. In addition, they now actively and enthusiastically join in with the hymns at church, which was not always the case prior to attending the choir.

‘My children have enjoyed immensely performing at the Armadillo and being part of the choir at the thanksgiving Mass at Motherwell Cathedral. I feel it has been of great benefit to my sons to mix with children beyond their usual circle of friends at these occasions, helping them improve their interpersonal skills.’

This isn’t the only public performance the children have given this term, either. Earlier this month, a 40-strong choir wowed attendees at the Caritas Awards Ceremony in the SEC Armadillo auditorium, and the choir from St Francis of Assisi sang for the Graduation Mass in Bute Hall at Glasgow University yesterday.

The Diocese of Motherwell has plans to grow its programme, too, with three new schools set to join in the new academic year. Speaking about the project and its effects, Choral Director James Greechan said:

‘As part of the wider NSSP, the effect of this programme has been profound, allowing us to reach children from all backgrounds and unite them in song. Alongside the wonderful musical benefits, the fruit of this work abounds in all areas of the school and parish community, raising attainment and giving all children the opportunity to be part of something bigger – to belong.’

The Rt Rev Joseph Toal, Bishop of Motherwell remarked:

‘The NSSP has been a most welcome addition to the continued mission of evangelisation within the Diocese of Motherwell. I have been pleased to attend a number of liturgies where this project has already produced great fruit and the singing of the children has added an increased sense of participation and praise to the liturgy. We eagerly look forward to the expansion of this project and all the graces it will bring for our young people!’