Welcome Pope Francis with Music: Indonesian Children Prepare for His Visit
Get ready to experience a heartwarming performance as 101 children from various schools and youth organizations in Jakarta, Indonesia, rehearse diligently to welcome Pope Francis to the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. The excitement is palpable as these talented young musicians prepare to greet the Holy Father during his Apostolic Visit to Indonesia.
By Mark Saludes and Peter Monthienvichienchai, LiCAS News
These talented children hail from four different schools – Sta. Ursula Jakarta, Sta. Maria Jakarta, Sta. Theresia Jakarta, and Strada Van Lith 1, as well as from two youth organizations, the Sant’Egidio Community and the Vita Dulcedo Orphanage.
On the second day of his visit, Pope Francis is scheduled to meet with a variety of individuals at the Cathedral on September 4, including bishops, priests, deacons, consecrated persons, seminarians, and catechists.
Young Gabriel Fauntleroy Hadisaputro from Sta. Maria Jakarta expresses his joy at the prospect of meeting the Pope in person, stating, “I only see him on TV. I feel happy about getting to meet him.”
Alexa Epiphany Maria Gunawan, a talented 11-year-old musician from Sta. Ursula School, will showcase her keyboard skills during the encounter with the Pope. She hopes to see him again in the future and wishes him a pleasant stay in Indonesia.
The children will perform a captivating four and a half-minute musical piece for Pope Francis and may have the opportunity to meet him following his meeting with clergy and young people from Scholas Occurrentes.
Choir tutor and musician Yudhi Ekaputra has crafted a special arrangement of the song ‘Siamo Noi’ for the performance, incorporating ethnic music and Indigenous instruments into the mix. He looks forward to recording this unique rendition for the Pope and the children.
A dedicated team of eight music teachers and 21 committee members have worked tirelessly to prepare the children for this memorable performance.
As the children gear up to welcome Pope Francis with their musical talents, the anticipation and excitement continue to grow. Stay tuned for more updates on this remarkable event!
This article was originally published on LiCAS News. All rights reserved. Unauthorized republication by third parties is not permitted.
