Worship through Music

Music holds a special and sacred place within Catholic worship and plays an important role in the spiritual life of St Gregory’s. Through music, prayer is given voice, emotion and depth, allowing worship to engage both heart and mind. St Augustine famously wrote, “Those who sing pray twice,” reminding us that music has the power to deepen prayer and draw us closer to God. At St Gregory’s, worship through music enriches our liturgies and celebrations, helping students and staff to participate more fully and reverently in prayer and communal worship.

Central to worship through music at St Gregory’s is our Maranatha Choir. The name Maranatha comes from Aramaic and means “Come, Lord Jesus”, a prayer that beautifully reflects the purpose of music within worship, to invite Christ into our hearts and into our community. The choir is led by our Lay Chaplain, Mr Michael Coughlan, and is also supported by our singing teacher, ensuring that students are nurtured both musically and spiritually. The Maranatha Choir plays a key role in school liturgies and events and, to our great pride, performs at our annual Prize Giving Evening, showcasing the talents and commitment of our students in a spirit of celebration and thanksgiving.

Music is also central to some of the most cherished moments in the life of our school community. Events such as our annual Cultural Evening, Advent Liturgy and Lenten Liturgy provide opportunities for staff, students and families to come together in prayerful reflection and celebration. These occasions are enriched by music that inspires, uplifts and unites, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where faith and culture are shared and celebrated.

These musical celebrations are particularly special as they bring together the wider St Gregory’s community, strengthening relationships and fostering a deep sense of belonging. Music plays a key role in these experiences, helping to create moments of reverence, joy and reflection that remain with those who attend.

Through musical worship, we at St Gregory’s continue to nurture a vibrant and prayerful Catholic identity. By offering students opportunities to use their musical gifts in service of the liturgy, we encourage them to grow in confidence, faith and leadership. Music at St Gregory’s is not simply performance, but prayer, enriching our worship and helping our community to encounter God more deeply.