The diamond jubilee of the 'Gaionancho Jhelo'—the Garland of Hymns—was observed at the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, India, by the Diocesan Centre for Liturgy, the Diocesan Commission for Sacred Music of Goa and Daman Diocese, and the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol on December 18.
The Gaionancho Jhelo is a collection of liturgical hymns that have been carefully selected for use in Eucharistic observances and for other liturgical objectives.
The hymbook, which encompasses the Order of the Mass as well, is not merely a collection of melodies; rather, it serves as a substantial repository of theological and spiritual insights. The hymn lyrics incorporate profound spiritual wisdom and essence, drawing inspiration from the Church's Liturgy, Tradition, Scripture, and the Magisterium.
During his address, Fr. Lino De Sa, the author of 58 hymns for the hymn book, nostalgically reflected on the profound influence that Jesuit Priest Fr. Vasco Do Rego had on Gaionancho Jhelo. He lauded the Garland of Hymns for its enduring legacy spanning six decades.
He compared the sentiments expressed in hymns, which are sincere entreaties to the Divine, to how a human exhalation extends toward God. The priest stated that composing a liturgy is comparable to tending to an untainted essence, necessitating the embellishment of music as attire to elevate its essence.
Acknowledging the collective efforts of choir groups across deaneries and parishes in singing these hymns for this celebration, Father Lino underscored the significance of the harmonious convergence of music and lyrics in the context of prayer.
He also paid tribute to the unsung heroes—the anonymous composers and musicians whose contributions date back centuries before the birth of the hymbook, with their creations still resonating in traditional hymns dedicated to patron saints.
Fr. Donato Rodrigues, the Rector of the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, welcomed the assembly. Santa Cecilia Choir of the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol, directed by Fr. Mathew Rebello; Laudat, a group from Canacona deanery; Fr. Mansueto Fernandes' Chorus Angelorum from Chinchinnim deanery; and Fr. Rolland Lin Fernandes' Cantate de Domino from Pernem deanery.
Meanwhile, Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão's Secretary, Fr. Joaquim Loiola Pereira, remarked, "Gaionancho Jhelo transcends its mere classification as a hymn book; it exemplifies the indomitable spirit that Fr. Vasco do Rego, its visionary creator, imbued within it."
Fr. Pereira, a composer who has contributed to the collection with nearly thirty compositions, asserts that this book surpasses its corporeal manifestation. "Gaionancho Jhelo is a testament to the multifaceted genius of Fr. Vasco do Rego."
He said that as a theologian, spiritual guide, Konkanist, poet, and music composer, Fr. Vasco do Rego poured his diverse identities into crafting this compendium of hymns. His contribution—comprising two-thirds of the hymns—transforms this book into a treasury, echoing the teachings of the Bible and Church Documents. It serves as a guide for spiritual growth and Christian virtues," he added, underscoring the exceptional nature of this hymn book.
"Indeed, Gaionancho Jhelo stands apart, not merely as a collection of hymns but as a profound reservoir of spiritual guidance—a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and devotion of its creator, Fr. Vasco do Rego," said Pereira.
Fr. Simon D’Cunha, President of the Diocesan Commission for Sacred Music, expressed deep appreciation for Gaionancho Jhelo, highlighting its profound significance within the Church of Goa. He conveyed heartfelt gratitude to all contributors and paid homage to those who have passed away.
Father Vasco do Rego, SJ, made a significant contribution to this compilation by submitting 303 hymns. Father Alfred Vaz, Father Anand Aguiar, Father Bernardo Cota, Father Alcantara Barros, Father Anthony D'Souza, Father Anthony Rodrigues, Father Crescencio Monteiro, Father Francisco Miranda, Father Joaquim Loiola Pereira, and Father Joaquim Rodrigues were among the numerous esteemed individuals present.12-year-old Francis Anthony Fernandes holds the record for the youngest composer of a liturgical melody.
The hymn book showcases a splendid fusion of artistic abilities. Although the authors' identities are unknown, it contains a poem by renowned Konkani poet ManoharRai Sardesai, Goan traditional hymns, and compositions from Mangalore.
49 priests and 70 laypeople participated in the collaborative endeavor by offering musical contributions for the hymns; additionally, 21 priests and 20 laypeople composed music for different sections of the mass.
This commemorative event not only marked a significant achievement but also honored the illustrious heritage of hymns, symbolizing tradition and the enduring bond that exists among faith, culture, and music. - Br. John Malvino Alfonso OCD
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