Seton Hall Choir Honors Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton at 50th Canonization Anniversary

For the 50th anniversary of the canonization of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the Seton Hall Chamber Choir was invited to sing at her National Shrine in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The anniversary festival took place over the weekend of September 13, culminating in the Seton Hall Chamber Choir’s performance on the afternoon of September 14. As Seton Hall University was founded in the name of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, and her values guide the University, it was important that Seton Hall representatives be present during the festivities.

The Chamber Choir’s repertoire included “With Great Love” by Chris de Silva, based on the writings of Blessed Teresa of Calcutta; “I Believe” by Mark Miller, based on an anonymous Jewish poem; “Ave verum corpus” by W.A. Mozart; and the spiritual “Every Time I Feel the Spirit,” arranged by William Dawson.

With the University's new Strategic Plan, Inspiring Great Minds to Greater Purpose, enacted this year, the trip allowed students and faculty to reflect on the life and values of Elizabeth Ann Seton. Gemma Patrick, a choir member, was amazed by the turnout. She said, “It was so busy, and it was amazing to see so many people get together and celebrate Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton.” She also shared that the choir only had three weeks to prepare their music. Patrick indicated she was honored to be part of such a special occasion.

Associate Professor Catherine Zizik commented on the performance of sophomore Mary Brynn Christenson, who gave an oral interpretation of Dorothy Day’s work. “This was a powerful way to commemorate Elizabeth Ann Seton at the Shrine and unite two women whose lives embodied faith in action,” said Zizik. “Both served others — Seton through education and founding the Sisters of Charity, and Day through the Catholic Worker Movement and her advocacy for social justice. Presenting Day’s words with quotations from Mother Seton honored Seton’s legacy as a living tradition. It reminded audiences that compassion, service and faith are timeless calls to action and central to the Catholic social mission.”

On the morning of September 14, en route to the Shrine and before their official performance, the choir paid a short visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park. At Little Round Top, the group gave an impromptu performance of the National Anthem. Patrick commented that the choir was moved by the area's beauty and its importance to American history, and was grateful to Seton Hall for allowing students and faculty the opportunity not only to be part of a special event but also to share with others the love of music and song. Events such as this combine heritage, service and the arts contribute to Seton Hall University’s ongoing connection to its mission and the legacy of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. 

Categories: Arts and Culture, Faith and Service