Preparing for Confirmation

Our Confirmation candidates have gone through a long formation process. Part of it was attending sessions with parents or their sponsor.

Then last fall there was an all day retreat with the band The Thirsting.

They played and they shared their faith.

 There was time for journaling, ...

... paper-rock-scissors, ...

... and even some autographs at the end.

How About a Fight Song?

Basketball season has just begun, and the election campaign process is nearing its peak.

So with that as my backdrop, I'm embarking on a campaign of my own: I'm proposing that St. Columbkille School adopts a fight song, which could be played and sung during team warm-ups, halftime or breaks -- or at any school event or pep rally.

And I have a specific song in mind. It's lively, embraces our Catholic faith and is sung by a band which just performed at St. Columbkille last week, at a Confirmation day of reflection. Parents were invited to a closing concert.

Here is the song:

The link has punk rock written all over it, but I'm not sure if the song fits that category. Please give it a listen and see what you think.

Now normally, I would be hesitant about a religious hymn sung in rock style. But actually, I love this take by The Thirsting. The band managed to make the song fun and reverent at the same time.

For my family, "Hail Holy Queen" has become part of a pre-game ritual. While driving to a basketball, soccer, baseball or other sports competition, we pray. It's not very formal. We ask for safety for the players and families at the game and as they travel. We pray for good sportsmanship, for a good effort from our team and for a good game for our particular players and anyone who might need a good game that day. And we pray for a win -- if it be God's will.

We close with a "Hail Mary," followed by "Our Lady, Queen of Victory, pray for us!" And if the kids aren't enthusiastic enough, Mom makes them try it again. (Yes, I embrace the embarrassing, tormenting mom role.)

Then, if the CD hasn't strayed from our car, we play "Hail Holy Queen" by The Thirsting. And we're properly prepared for competition.

The more we've tried this, the more I'm convinced "Hail Holy Queen" would be a great fight song.

Father Damian, Mr. Makey, Mrs. Redburn, Father Vogel, what do you think? What about you, Athletic Council, teachers, staff, school council members, students and school families?

Should we have a fight song, and should it be "Hail Holy Queen"?

I think Jesus would be pleased that we would honor His mother. And with His favor, she's a mighty defender to have on our side, as Crusaders.

Please respond with your approval, disapproval or comments below.

Go, Crusaders!

Inspired by the Year of Faith, Susan Szalewski began writing weekly columns for us. Although that year is over, we liked them so well that we asked her to keep writing. Thankfully, she said yes. So watch for these on Thursdays and see the Year of Faith Blog here.

Concert Tonight

Daniel Oberreuter, how is the lead singer for the band, The Thirsting, will have a concert in our church at 6:30 tonight. He is singing at our Masses today so you can get a sense of him.

Or check out one of their music videos: