GozoNews.Com

This year’s Acies Legion of Mary function that takes place yearly at the Xewkija Rotunda was recently animated by the Chorus Urbanus. Bearing in mind the importance of devotion to Mary, a consecration to Our Lady takes place on the 25th March or on a day close thereto. This year, the function fell on ‘Dominica in Albis’, thus coinciding with the feast of Divine Mercy.

The Acies is the great central annual function of the Legion of Mary, so attendance on the part of every member is imperative. It is the solemn expression of that accord that takes place under a declaration of fealty to Mary, Mother of God. The function was presided by H.L. Mgr. Mario Grech.

The Chorus Urbanus sang various Marian motets and hymns suited to the occasion. During the declaration of fealty, lasting a full 25 minutes, the Chorus Urbanus sang Totus tuus by Geo Ennis, Salve Regina by Giuseppe Giardini-Vella, Ave Maria by Arcadelt and other Marian hymns. The service also included works by Elgar, Giuseppe Caruana and Palestrina.

It was indeed a joy to hear the congregation participate in the singing of the Mass Ordinary, joining the choir in a poignant performance of the Missa de Angelis. The essential idea of the Legion of Mary, upon which all else is built, is that of working in union with and in dependence on Mary, its Queen. And so it was!