Communion with Bono?

Amy Lauger's picture

I ran across this USA Today article today that tells about a new trend in Episcopalian churches to celebrate the Eucharist with U2 lyrics. I guess the argument is that just as Bach et al were the celebrated contemporary musicians of their day, and the church used them for worship, why should we not use the musings of Bono for the Eucharist today? I love Bono, but….. On the other hand, there is much talk in the Roman Catholic Church about reviving Tridentine (Latin) Masses. Any thoughts?

Yes, I have some thoughts.

Yes, I have some thoughts. First of all, I really respect what I've seen/heard of Bono's witness. But my second thought is that I'm a bit traditional in my worship leanings, and I like the old routine hymns and Bach and whatnot. This contrasts with my relatively open and liberal way of thought in other spheres. But I'm not sure that the traditional format is for everyone, and I think it's good for congregations to experiment. The responses aren't always age-rooted, either. When I was in my late teens and early twenties, I felt distinctly averse to the pop music used in some services I attended--it was enough to make me stop attending church at some places. I think music has a huge impact on worship, and deserves much thought from each congregation.
Vicky

The Latin Mass is wonderful,

The Latin Mass is wonderful, gorgeous, and historic.
Bono is essentially a new-age 'all paths lead to go' pantheist.

Though I don't know about

Though I don't know about Bono's personal testimony, I see a place for some of U2's music in worship. In fact, I have seen it used parachurch ministries; when I attended InterVarsity as an undergrad in the mid-late 90s, U2's 'arrangement' of Psalm 40 had been for some time a standard in worship services. Earlier this year, my pastor read the complete lyrics of 'Yaweh' as an illustration during his sermon. I think the analogy to Bach's work seems fitting.