It’s less than a week since Carols at the Cathedral and Sydney still echoes with the glorious success of this beloved event.
On 18 December, families, and friends packed St Mary’s Cathedral for two magical performances produced by the voices of the majestic cathedral choir. It created an experience of joy and reverence that will hopefully continue for decades.
However, as we celebrate the success of this event, it is essential to recognise that without financial support, the future of the choir and events like Carols at the Cathedral couldn’t be possible.
St Mary’s Cathedral Choir currently provides scholarships to 15 boys and 11 scholars; older boys whose voices have changed.
However, in 2025 St Mary’s Cathedral College will become co-educational, which provides the cathedral music school the opportunity to establish a girls’ choir to serve God with the gift of their voices.
In this way, the iconic and historic St Mary’s Cathedral Choir is a vital ministry, which relies solely on donations and now more than ever, they need your help.
Father Roberto Keryakos, a former chorister for 12 years and now the assistant priest at St Mary’s Cathedral and the choir chaplain, said that providing scholarships to choristers is of great spiritual importance.
“Sacred music is the greatest treasure of the church,” said Fr Roberto. “The fact that we can supply scholarships to young boys and girls interested in the choir, next year and beyond, is responding to the church’s great call to preserve this great treasure of the church because, otherwise, it will simply disappear.”
Lucas is one of the choristers currently going through a rigorous routine of daily rehearsals before and after school, to continue performing in the new year and at next year’s Carols at the Cathedral.
But without a scholarship, his singing days could be numbered.
“I love the choir. First of all, it’s fun, but also, it’s a good way to learn different languages,” said Lucas. “My favourite part about being in the choir is singing at the big Masses when the archbishop is present.”
Lucas’ mother, Rebecca Wang explained the difference the scholarship makes in their family’s life.
“Nowadays, inflation rates are climbing rapidly, and living costs are skyrocketing, which brings a lot of pressure to some families,” she said.
“If the foundation was not able to provide scholarships, I personally believe that I could not put as much focus on my son’s musical and academic study.”
As we gather to sing our favourite carols this Christmas and attend events like Carols at the Cathedral, we are reminded that it is the spirit of giving that embodies this season.
“By giving to the choir, you are not only investing in music, but also in community, culture, and the continuity of a beloved tradition, said Tania Penny from the Catholic Development and Fundraising Office within the Archdiocese of Sydney.
“Your support is not just appreciated; it is essential to preserving our Mother Church and her sacred music. Join us in this endeavour and help take the Gospel to Sydney and beyond.”
To donate please follow the link.