Here’s a musical riddle for America’s 250th anniversary: What patriotic anthem was written as a prayer by a Jewish Broadway composer, made the pop charts five times by three different Catholic artists, and inspired a legendary folk singer to write his own heartfelt ballad about America? The song is “God Bless America” by Irving Berlin.
If you attend a Memorial Day ceremony this year, chances are you will hear “On Eagle’s Wings,” which is based on the text of Psalm 91. Written by liturgical theologian and composer Father Michael Joncas, “On Eagle’s Wings” is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Father Joseph Palackal, parochial vicar for St. Margaret Church since 2019, is a world-renowned musicologist and a foremost authority on liturgical music. He can even chant in multiple languages, including Aramaic, the language spoken by ordinary people in Judea at the time of Christ.
While the iconic skull and skeleton images have become synonymous with the Grateful Dead, fans may be surprised to learn that frontman Jerry Garcia was a man of faith.
Music director Scott Battaglia has pursued music ministry across New York City, now bringing his lifelong passion for church music to Our Lady of Angels and St. Anselm’s.
Many milestones are occurring this year for Bruce Springsteen, not the least of which was the 50th anniversary of his landmark classic “Born to Run.”
