The stones of Philadelphia's Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul were first to echo the official anthem of the VIII World Meeting of Families, which will be held next year in the city of Pennsylvania, from 22 to 27 September.
The title of the hymn—sung by the Cathedral choir during the offertory procession of the Mass on November 20th, presided by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput—is "Ring the Bell of the Holy Freedom". The song, selected by a special committee in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and formally approved by the Pontifical Council for the Family, is directly inspired by the theme of the 2015 World Meeting: "Love is Our Mission: The Family, Fully Alive." The composers are Normand Gouin (music) and Fr. Andrew Ciferni (lyrics).
"After the joyous news that Pope Francis will be with us in Philadelphia next year—said Archbishop Chaput—, this hymn inspires us as we advance in this period of preparation for the VIII World Meeting of Families. The 2015 event has the power to transform the lives of all families, Catholic and non-Catholic alike, in a positive and charismatic way; and I am sure that this transfiguring spirit will be strengthened even more by our anthem. The powerful words and the exceptional melody of "Ring the Bell of the Holy Freedom" will encourage the listeners to deepen significantly their daily relationship with God and with their families."
