On Saturday, February 11, Kellenberg Memorial High School’s liturgical choir, the Gregorian Consortium, provided the music for the 5:00 PM Liturgy at Holy Spirit Parish in New Hyde Park.
This year, the Gregorian Consortium wanted to begin a new tradition, whereas they would give back to the community, by playing music for one parish a year in the Diocese of Rockville Centre. Moderator Mr. Alex Basile reminded the students, “Kellenberg may be our home away from home, but on the weekend, parish life is just as important to the Church.” Holy Spirit Parish itself is one of the older parishes in the Diocese; being founded in the late nineteenth century. The church and former school have also produced a fair number of Kellenberg’s faculty and students.
The students of “St. Gregs” found great meaning in assisting with the music at Holy Spirit. Jordon Bernhardi ’17 expressed that, “It was a great opportunity to share our musical talents with other Catholics in the Diocese.” Kailee Alberto ’18 and Anna Gallego ’18 further agreed, “Participating in the mass at Holy Spirit made us realize that there is more to our faith life than just Kellenberg.”
The Pastor of Holy Spirit Father Frank Grieco summed up the evening during his homily, “I have never physically visited Kellenberg, but I have only heard wonderful things. The students this evening have inspired me with their talents. It is great to witness young people learning the liturgy and the catechism. I am a great supporter of Catholic education on Long Island, and this is truly great to see among this group of students. I also want to know when they’re coming back to sing for us again!”
After Mass, members of the Gregorian Consortium distributed free copies of Kellenberg’s most recent CD, Merciful Father. The group then walked a few blocks to the nearby pizzeria Gino’s on Jericho Turnpike. Here they shared in an Italian dinner. Overall, it was a wonderful evening of faith and community.