MANILA, Dec. 14, 2012—Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle highlighted the role of the arts in evangelization at a concert held December 12 to benefit the restoration of the Manila Metropolitan Cathedral.
Called “Patron of the Arts”, the concert also stressed the Church’s patronage of the arts throughout history— be it in music, literature, architecture or sculpture.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle belts out a number during a concert held December 12 for the benefit of the Manila Cathedral.
Tagle said acknowledging the Christian values that are implied in the artist’s magnum opus is a proclamation of the Gospel and a form of service to God.
The evening concert at the Meralco theater assembled award-winning performing artists, the likes of Noel Cabangon, Isay Alvarez, Robert Sena, 92 AD, Bukas Palad Music Ministry, Hangad Music Ministry, John van De Steen Choir, Koro Ilustrado, Philippine Allstars, The Angelos, and Whiplash Dance Company, who treated the audience with a repertoire of dance and music.
The musical event also had the Cardinal performing two numbers, one solo and another backed up by the Bukas Palad Ministry Choral group, to the delight of the audience.
In his short speech during the concert, Tagle explained how Christian art has become not merely an aesthetic but also an spiritual experience for the faithful.
Two great Filipino artists were also honored with a lifetime achievement award, prima ballerina Lisa Macuja-Elizalde and the late film maker Marilou diaz-Abaya.
Organized by JesCom Communications, the “Patron of the Arts” is set to be a yearly tradition not only to showcase the best of Filipino talents but also to benefit the various ministries and projects of Manila archdiocese.
The musical event also coincided with the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and the first year anniversary of Tagle’s installation as Archbishop of Manila. (CBCPNews)
