By Ade Iyamoye
The Auxiliary Bishop of Abuja Archdiocese, Most Rev. Anselm Umoren, has cautioned against the excessive use of musical instruments in church liturgies, emphasizing that sacred music should be solemn and prayerful.
He gave this warning during the 2025 Annual Lenten Retreat of the Catholic Archdiocesan Choir, Abuja, held on Saturday, 22 March at St. Martin of Tours Parish, Mabushi.
Speaking during an interactive session with choristers from across the archdiocese, Bishop Umoren stressed that choir ministry is not a performance but a spiritual duty that demands discipline, humility, and commitment.
He urged choristers to focus on the essence of liturgical music, ensuring that their renditions inspire prayer rather than entertainment.
The retreat, which included confessions, counseling, and Eucharistic Adoration led by Rev. Fr. Uchenna Secundu Ogu, also featured a Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Umoren alongside other priests, including Rev. Fr. Ben Onyemechalu, the Associate Chaplain of the Archdiocesan Choir, and Rev. Fr. Hilary Ugiomoh, the Parish Priest.
The bishop further advised choristers to prepare adequately for Masses and other liturgical functions while calling on the church to support the choir’s basic needs.
Following the Mass, the bishop held an interactive session where he reinforced the importance of discipline and spiritual growth in choir service.
The Associate Chaplain, Fr. Onyemechalu, expressed gratitude to the bishop for his guidance, while the Archdiocesan Choirmaster, Charles U. Arua, pledged to uphold high musical standards and appealed for consistent church support.
Also, the Archdiocesan Choirmaster assured that efforts would be made to align church music with liturgical guidelines.
The retreat concluded with meditation and adoration, leaving participants spiritually renewed.
