Catholic Mission In Canada

When radio frequencies are out of range, recorded songs provide company for missionary Sister through long and silent road journeys

I have been waiting for the light of inspiration to get started writing this letter. The glow has been on “dim” for awhile. My idea was to use the songs I listen to and enjoy on my travels while trying to stay alert on the road and to enliven the long silences especially when radio frequencies are out of range. I can say with honesty that I do not find the road boring because every turn, hill and valley offers new scenery, new colours or shapes, even some wild birds and animals. However, I do get a little restless or weary and I need to find ways to overcome those feelings.

Here are a few of the varieties I like: “Today I’m going to try to save the world. Gonna take it one day at a time...”—Johnny Reid

I do believe that J.R. has the right idea in this song and he has many good resolutions we might try to keep as well. Some include teaching children right from wrong and saying hello to neighbours. The influence of this song played many times on our radio is far-reaching. So also are the refrains of Carrie Underwood who in gratefulness relies on Jesus and proclaims it to all her fans. It is Jesus our Lord being preached and shared with those who are open to listen. Our Northern (NCI) and local (CFCN) radio stations are really open in allowing and encouraging those who proclaim the Word in speech and song. Gospel Jamborees are often heard on weekends challenging listeners to repentance and conversion. “Shout to the North and the South. Sing to the East and the West, Jesus is Saviour to all, Lord of heaven and earth...”—from Worship Together Canada

This hymn impressed me when I learned it at the Youth Outreach I participated in many years ago, going to several communities of the Keewatin-Le Pas archdiocese. I sing aloud and wish I could bring that energy and vigour to the Sunday assembly gathered for Liturgy of the Word. Many times, we are without a guitar accompanist. We do need some new songs that are easy to learn and remember for the Celebrations of the Word and of the Eucharist. “Doo Wacka Doo...”—from Celtic Thunder

It is just a crazy wacky tune that brings a smile to my heart as I reminisce on pasts of long ago and have some fond and lively memories of family gatherings whether they were at Mémère Turenne’s Christmas gathering or at Pépère Catellier’s family ranch. “Who wants to live forever...”—Sarah Bright man

What a voice that sings! In many languages she takes me to heights and I want to sing just like that reaching those clear crisp high notes. I suppose only in heaven for me will there be that full voice. I, and many others of the community, deplore my lack of music skill. So often, when we are lacking musicians, we make do with real simplicity in our wakes, funerals and Sunday gatherings. I cannot teach how to sing a cappella or alto or soprano or harmonizing. The singers do harmonize a few songs and it sounds so nice I wish there were more of them. Maybe at Christmas singing practices we can add a few more to the repertoire.

Other favourite CDs added over the years include songs by Elvis Presley, ABBA, Anne Murray, and Andrea Bocelli .... Oddly, my old favourites are played over and over again. One of them is a Gospel CD by Nicole C. Mullen I received in Brochet. I finally listened to it while travelling at a virtual snail’s pace on an icy road to Thompson one very early morning. Lastly, at Lent and Easter, I use the Divine Mercy and Rosary prayers on CD.

I hope that this listing of songs gives you an insight into my thoughts and longings. Thank you to family, friends, fellow SNJMs and benefactors who make many activities in the mission possible.

Sister Carmen Catellier, S.N.J.M., is pastoral administrator at Holy Cross parish in Cross Lake, Manitoba, in the Archdiocese of Keewatin-Le Pas.