Just a few short hours after arriving in Brussels yesterday, the Canterbury and St. David Choirs gave a performance at the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Guluda, the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels (Roman Catholic). When they arrived for rehearsal/warmup shortly before the concert, the children were pleased to see by the entrance a poster advertising their concert (written in French), and they gathered to point and smile at it before being called away to sing.
While the children rehearsed, some parents made the short walk to the hotel to check in (we had dropped off luggage before heading out for lunch and a walking/bus tour of Brussels), and when we returned, we found many seats in the cathedral already filled. Some people seemed to be locals, there only for the concert, while others seemed to be tourists who happened upon it as they were sightseeing.
Now, the children of these choirs are a talented group accompanied by a talented organist/pianist and led by a talented director, so when they sing in church or at concerts, they are always very good. But this concert was perhaps the best-ever display of their talent and of their love for God.
The people in the audience were sometimes swaying to the music, sometimes crying, sometimes videoing (no, not just the parents!) ... and the energy in that magnificent place seemed almost tangible, especially during their finale, "Elijah Rock," the only piece that uses both choirs. Video will be posted here soon! After the concert, everyone was released for free time (waffles for dinner, anyone?) and rest.
Today was a busy day: a day trip to the beautiful city of Bruges!
We leave tomorrow for Haarlem, the final leg of this journey. Haarlem sits outside of Amsterdam, and the children sing mass Sunday at St. Bavo Cathedral. We welcome and encourage your continued prayers for safe travel and the spreading of the Gospel!
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