COLOMBIA, Aica •
This past Wednesday [3 August], the official hymn for Pope Francis visit to Colombia on 6-10 September was chosen. The winning song, called “Let us take the first step” (in keeping with the motto of the papal visit), was composed by Carlos Corvacho and performed by the United Catholic Musicians group, who competed with nine other finalists from around the country.
More than 400 entries were received when the call was put out. The jury consisted of singers Fanny Lu and Maía.
The jury who elected it, as part of the “Sing to the Pope” contest was formed by Maía and Héctor Tobo, as well as Frs Juan David Muriel and Juan Alvaro Zapata.
The United Catholic Musicians will sing it live for Pope Francis at the Simón Bolivar de Bogotá park on 7 September.
They will also record the official hymn in a studio and will be released on 14 August.
Lyrics to the song “Let us take the first step”
Messenger full of joy
You are sent from the Lord
You come like rain in the desert,
Giving hope to our people.
We wait for you with open doors,
Our hearts ready
To receive your blessing
Chorus:
You bring us light, you bring us peace,
You bring us words of truth
And our people will be able to
Find God in freedom.
You bring us light, you bring us peace,
You bring us words of truth
And our people will be able to
Find God in freedom
Hearts full of joy,
Colombia receives you today
United in midst of barriers and devastation
We want to offer you our song.
We await you with open hearts,
Our hearts ready
To receive your blessing.
Source: aica.org.ar
Original: Spanish. 5 August. Translation: Sarah-Leah Pimentel, Cape Town South Africa
Let us take the first step: on the Eve of Pope Francis’ visit to Colombia