Catholic Review of: The Priests

I must admit, when I first heard about three Irish priests putting out a CD of Catholic Classics, I was less than impressed.  Don't get me wrong, I love beautiful choral pieces as much as the next guy but I didn't think it would be anything special.  I was in for a large, and largely unintended, shock.  I was laid up on my couch sick and had EWTN on, and there I see Raymond Arroyo standing at the front of St Malachy's Catholic Church in New York City.  He was introducing the Priest's St Patrick's Day concert.  In short order, Father Delargy and the Fathers O'Hagen (both of them) took their places in the sanctuary (the Blessed Sacrament being properly reserved elsewhere for the evening).  "Alright," I thought "let's see what all the fuss is about."  I saw.  I saw immediately.

It would probably be more accurate to say "I heard".  I later went and bought the CD and it was a true joy.  From sublime pieces like Ave Maria, Panis Angelicus, and (my favorite) Pie Iesu, to stately pieces like Die Schopfung and Gloria/Domine Fili Unigente, I was hooked.  I would be remiss in my duty if I neglected to mention the beautiful and bittersweet rendition of the Irish Blessing.

Quality Choral music is hard to find, especially in today's modern market; however, this CD would be a gem in any collection.  The fervent love and conviction for the Faith can be heard reverberating in their tenor and baritone voices.  It is this same fervor that drives this Sacerdotal Trio of Gaels outside of their music.  Before they signed their contract with Sony Music, the Priests made sure that it was clearly stated that their primary obligation was to their home parishes.  In this, the Year of the Priest, their self sacrificing love stands as a reminder to us of why we call priests Father.  It is a credit to the priesthood that these men, when offered a chance at fame and fortune, would not only remember their obligation to their parish family but put it before their own worldly gain.  Father David Delargy, Father Marten O'Hagen, and Father Eugene O'Hagen are the pastors of Hannahstown, Chushendun, and Ballyclare & Ballygowan respectively.

Its choral merits aside, I would recommend this CD for its variety.  5 languages (English, Spanish, Latin, German, and Irish Gaelic by my count) spanning 14 songs.  I knew most of them, but there were a few I had to look up to find out what they were about and I'm grateful for the learning experience.  So buy it for the beauty, for the traditions, and for the enrichment of your faith.

"This music is for all people, regardless of their background of faith, or no faith, or maybe a little faith that needs rekindling... we hope that is will bring a lot of joy, lift hearts and give praise to God."  --Fr Marten O'Hagen

You can purchase this CD here.