UE/R: SOCO PROJECT FACILITATORS URGED TO WORK HARD FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PROJECT – DCE NABDAM
BY: GIDEON K. ADU
The Navrongo – Bolgatanga Choirs Association’s (NABODICA) 4TH Biennial Congress was graciously hosted by Bongo Parish ( St. Vincent De Paul outstation, Namoo) in the Bolgatanga Deanery, a parish widely recognized for its vibrant liturgical life and strong support for sacred music ministry. And it was in partnership with Regentropfen University College of Applied Science (ReCAS), Kansoe, Namoo.
This years congress was more than just a musical gathering—it was a dynamic convergence of faith, fellowship, and formation. It also harmonized hearts and voices—strengthening both the song and the spirit behind it. The theme for the 4th Biennial Congress was with the theme: Pilgrims of hope, Journeying together in sacred music.
The congress commenced with a heartfelt welcome address delivered by the-outgoing President of the Association, Mr. James Saaka. In his remarks, he extended warm greetings to all attendees, including choir members, invited guests, and music enthusiasts.
The address emphasized the central role of the choir in promoting unity, capacity building training, achievement and musical excellence. The President commended members for their dedication and collaborative spirit, noting that the choir had not only enhanced musical talent but also fostered a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Highlighting the association’s achievements over the past years, the President also acknowledged the challenges faced and encouraged members to remain steadfast and passionate in their contributions. The speech concluded with a call for continued cooperation and innovation to elevate the choir’s impact both within and beyond the diocese. The welcome address was well-received, setting an uplifting and inclusive tone for the rest of the day’s program and was quick to announce the next congress that will be held in 2028 and will be hosted by Wiaga Deanery.
In his Sermon in the opening Mass, the Chaplain of the Choir’s Association, Rev. Fr. Vitus Alnaa in a tone marked by warmth and reverence, the Chaplain opened by thanking God for the gift of life and the opportunity to gather in fellowship through music.
The Chaplain emphasized the spiritual significance of choral music, describing it as both a ministry and a form of worship that uplifts souls and strengthens communal bonds. He encouraged members to remain committed not just to excellence in musical delivery, but also to embodying humility, unity, and service through song. Acknowledging the tireless efforts of choir leaders and members, the Chaplain highlighted the role of music in healing, praise, and social harmony.
On the theme: Pilgrims of hope, Journeying together in sacred music, he said The beauty of our music does not centered only on the melody. We must express God’s love in our music , he added that What makes our music powerful is our attitude and expressing love through our ministration. Music has power and power must be guided by purity imitating St. ANTHONY OF PADUA whose feast was been celebrated. He again reminded choristers that music shouldn’t be just a performance but inspirations and avoid division; jealously and pride which are enemies of harmony and spirituality. He concluded by saying our music must reflect the truth of our faith and let our light be a testimony.
The Congress keynote address was delivered by Mrs. Alice Ellen Abeere-Inga (Upper East Regonal Director of Education). it was a soul-stirring and purposeful message Centered on the theme “Pilgrims of Hope: Journeying Together in Sacred Music,” she invited participants to reflect deeply on their shared spiritual mission as choristers and ministers of sacred music.
Opening with words of gratitude and reverence, she described choir members as a modern-day pilgrims—individuals united by hope, faith, and a commitment to lifting hearts through music. The address emphasized that sacred music is more than performance; it is a sacred calling, rooted in service, worship, and healing.
The speaker highlighted the unifying role of music, stressing that despite varying backgrounds, all choir members journey together, harmonizing not just voices but values. The address further encouraged participants to support one another, mentor emerging talents, and keep sacred music alive through devotion and collaboration. The message was well-received, drawing heartfelt applause and spiritual affirmation from the audience. It provided a strong foundation for the congress, inspiring both reflection and renewed enthusiasm for the role of choirs in spiritual and communal life.
In his presentation, the resource person Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Akanzagse talked about Sacred Music in the Church: A treasure beyond measure.
He said Sacred music is described as “a treasure beyond measure” – not just an addition to worship but an “integral part” of sacred worship.
He added that there are three main purposes of sacred music according to Church :
- Adds beauty to worship (everyone appreciates beauty)
- Encourages participation (prevents people from being mere spectators)
- Lifts hearts to God (connects to prayer as “raising heart and mind to God”)
He again said the Church have a duty to “diligently promote sacred music” to help people “worship in spirit and truth”
On the Theme: “Pilgrims of Hope Journeying Together in Sacred Msic“, he breaks down the identity of “pilgrims of hope” into four characteristics:
Makes sincere efforts
– A pilgrim (from Latin) is one who travels through land/field on foot
– Requires personal effort and sacrifice
– As choir members, each person must make efforts to practice, attend congresses, etc.
Engages in silent meditation and prayer
– A pilgrim naturally reflects and prays while journeying
– Warning against merely “performing” rather than ministering
– “Sometimes there’s a temptation for choristers to perform instead of singing as liturgical ministers”
Lives with confession and conversion
– Hearts must be “turning toward heaven” while singing
– The spirit of sacred songs should transform those who sing them
Embraces simplicity of life
– Pilgrims travel light, not burdened with excess
He concluded by outlining some Challenges to Journeying Together.
The speaker addresses obstacles to unity among choir members by saying Jealousy between members with different gifts,People breaking away from groups due to competition and Warning that “our journey together is too short” to waste on anger and bitterness
As part of the official proceedings of the Choir Association Congress, a series of goodwill messages were delivered by invited dignitaries. These messages reflected strong support for the mission of the association and recognized its contributions to both spiritual enrichment and community unity through sacred music.
The various speakers commended the association’s efforts in fostering musical excellence, discipline, and spiritual devotion among members. Messages were delivered by Rev. Fr. Joseph Aduedem, Mr. Charles Akwotiga, Noble Sister Albana Dun and many other societal leadership in the Diocese.
Notable highlights include unifying power of sacred music in promoting peace and moral values, a call on choir members to remain steadfast in their ministry and embrace innovation while maintaining reverence. Each goodwill message reaffirmed the vital role of music in spiritual life and community development. The expressions of support and shared commitment boosted morale and added a solemn, uplifting tone to the congress.
The congress was graced by more than 500 participated choristers within the Navrongo-Bolgatanga Diocese. The Chaplian Rev Fr. Vitus Alnaa Inaugurated the newly Elected Executives of the Association.
