Ecumenicity on the move [editorial]

Title

Language

English

Year

1966

Rights

In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted

Fulltext

Editorial report — w "Mtwe We are continually impressed by the part which the University of the Philippines plays in putting into effect the ideals of ecumenity that is taking shape all over the world; thanks to the principles laid down by Pope John XXIII and Pope Paul VI. As the cradle of toleration, U. P., a public institution of higher learning, stands out as a lighthouse sending out its beams of light for all to see, to be guided thereby. Last year, we reported that at a funeral service in the Catholic Chapel of the Holy Sacrifice, the officiating priest invited a Protestant pastor to say the benediction. This year, April 5, 1966, the two churches on the campus, the Chapel of the Holy Sacrifice (Catholic) and the Church of the Risen Lord (Protestant), put their choirs together to sing The Passion According to St. John, for the edification of the church communities. The presentation was, according to those who heard it, most impressive and ennobling. Well-known professional singers were the soloists: Prof. Aurelio Estanislao, Prof. Andrea Ofilada Veneracion, Conservatory students Susan Lim and Noel Velasco. Incidentally, Mrs. Veneracion, daughter of MWB Macario Ofilada, PGM, is a member of the Order of Eastern Star. Narrators were Rev. Felix Perez and Rev. Fr. Ben Villote, both of the Jesuit Order and Rev. James Palm, Pastor of the Protestant congregation. The joint choir was conducted by Prof. Flora Zarco Rivera, daughter and wife of Masons. Her husband, Bro. & Dr. Manuel Rivera, is director of the Masonic Hospital for Crippled Children and a member of High Twelve Lodge No. 82. Significantly, the music was composed by a Mason, Bro. Johan Sebastian Bach, famour composer of organ music. He was church organist of a Catholic church in Austria, in early' eighteenth century. At that time, Bro. Bach’s Masonry and Catholicism were in harmony. Significantly also, this time it is apparent that the situation is returning. NBM - A - April 1966 43

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