Growing up in a traditional Catholic church has left me with a bias. I love all traditional hymns played on the organ. I moved a few years ago and began attending another church (still Catholic) that uses instruments such as tambourines, guitars, drums, and even maracas. The organ is rarely used. This music bothers me to the point where I barely want to go to mass. Even though I mentioned I had a bias, I still believe these instruments (and not to mention very contemporary songs) do not belong in a Catholic church. It is very important that I get answers from Catholics only, because most other religions are used to this type of music used in worship. What are your opinions on this? Defend yourself-make sure you mention if you grew up with that type of music. That is a huge factor.
2006-09-08 15:10:48 · 11 answers · asked by kid_at_heart 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
I grew up in the 60s. My church had an organ. We usually sang with the church organ. Then, after Vatican II, the worship service changed in regards to music. The church was trying to "open windows" and let in some fresh air.
This meant a change in how church music was presented. I experienced a "contemporary" Mass in high school (I went to a Catholic High School). The service meant more to us because we were using music we liked.
I understand your feelings about the musical instruments. Does your church ONLY use the other instruments? Is another more "traditional" Mass offered at another time?
The church I go to now has several different services. The more "contemporary" Mass is at 11:30 with guitars, tambourines, etc. I go to an earlier Mass with organ only.
I like the fact that we can sing and worship with other instruments. The church is trying to appeal a broader group of people- a younger group. Also, it appeals to other ethnic groups.
I hope I answered your questions.
I also hope you don't leave because you don't like the music. You will miss so much.
2006-09-08 15:18:24 · answer #1 · answered by Malika 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The official music of the Roman church is still the Gregorian Chant, which is spectacular, but rare these days.
I've heard various instruments used, and if well done, I have no problem with it.
One of the best arrangements I've experienced is the use of the big "kettle" (tympani) drums in the background, when singing the great amen.
It was fantastic!
The tremendous range and many voices of the modern electronic organs have changed things,too.
It's rare to find an old fashioned pipe organ anymore.
2006-09-08 16:16:01 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
I grew up with traditional church music and all the routines of a Lutheran church. I never once flet the presence of the Lord. As an adult, I attended a "non-denominational" Christian church. I saw people worshiping the Lord in spirit and in truth as described in the Bible. They worshiped the Lord freely - shouting praises to His name, singing and dancing to the Lord, and lifting up their hands. The praise and worship team (a praise band that played contemporary Christian music) praised the Lord whole heartily. I enjoyed the music, but more importantly, I felt a power and a presence that I had never before experienced. I believe the music was pleasing to the Lord. He accepted it as true worship and the Spirit was present. I now know with all my heart that the Lord is real. Experience some of today's Christian music (FFH, Jeremy Camp, Mercy Me, Casting Crowns, etc.) and I believe you will soon see the power of song is great as a calling to God.
2006-09-08 15:26:14 · answer #3 · answered by TJMiler 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
We have guitar and violin in my church and I think they sound beautiful. Although I could always go for some old fashion organ at the church on the other side of my town if I begin to dislike the more modern instruments.
2006-09-08 15:18:35 · answer #4 · answered by Gmun 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I personally don't like anything except a piano and voices. And I also go to a church with these other instruments. I prefer the piano, because it sounds amazing and the glory isn't to the singers but to God. The other instruments take away from this. I am Catholic, btw.
2006-09-08 15:15:38 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
I am not a Catholic, but I have performed in numerous Catholic churches in chamber orchestras. I play violin. I personally rejoice in musical instruments of all kinds, but, my favorite is voice. (By the way, good, enlightened people do not religiously segregate or discriminate. Your question hearkened an image of Nazis sitting around a parlor in grace and comfort sipping warmed cognac, listening to the magnificence of Wagner, while outside, someone is shouting, "Jews to the right. Christians to the left.")
2006-09-09 05:00:35 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
I am Catholic and the church that I attend always had guitars and flutes. The Bible says that David worshiped the Lord with music. WIth lyres (guitars), harps, tambourine, and cymbals. This is from the Bible. All through the book of Psalms. One of my favorite ways to worship is through music.
2006-09-08 15:22:53 · answer #7 · answered by sugapeach_2000 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I see your point, but several years ago we got a trumpet, violin and guitar, we still have our organ player...drums? that is hard to stomach. I live way down south in Texas and there is a church in a neighboring town that has gone charismatic...whatcha think of that? can you see a Catholic jumping up during mass and shouting? I guess we have to conform to the times
2006-09-08 15:15:10 · answer #8 · answered by sweetiepi 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Catholic here-I agree with you.
Mass is supposed to be a time of prayer, reflection, and communion.
It is not a time for loud music, or people cheering and jumping everywhere.
Peace be with you.
2006-09-08 15:13:39 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
We are commanded to sing, not play the instrument
2006-09-08 15:15:30 · answer #10 · answered by The Cornerstone 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋