"Hymn of Hope: Hyderabad Archdiocesan Choir Unveils a Heavenly Anthem for the Jubilee Year"

Hyderabad, February 6, 2025: The Hyderabad Archdiocesan Choir recently delivered a moving rendition of Hymn of the Pilgrims of Hope, a composition that resonates with the themes of faith, hope and reverence. The hymn was crafted by Michael Peria, a distinguished figure in sacred music, and has been inspired by the Jubilee prayer. The hymn seeks to inspire and uplift the Church with a message of hope through its sacred and reverent melody. His Eminence Anthony Cardinal Poola, the Archbishop of Hyderabad, has approved the hymn, further enhancing its significance within the Archdiocese.

The Hyderabad Archdiocesan Choir (HAC), which was founded in February 2014 with the approval of the Archbishop, is a vital part of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre’s activities. Under the Archbishop's patronage, HAC has flourished, now consisting of 60 members drawn from 22 parishes across the Archdiocese. 

In addition to their liturgical studies, HAC members deepen their understanding of liturgical studies and sacred music and its role in worship by learning parts of the Mass as per the Roman Missal in Latin, English, and regional languages. They also explore sound, music theory, and the anatomy of singing, gaining the necessary skills to lead and sustain a choir. These members sing at various significant events throughout the Archdiocese, including the United Christian Christmas Celebrations and the Chief Minister’s Christmas Program.

Mr. Michael Peria, the leader of the Hyderabad Archdiocesan Choir, brings more than 55 years of experience to his ministry. A visiting professor on the Theology of Sacred Music at several major seminaries, he has composed over 350 responsorial psalms and other liturgical pieces, which have been published by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CCBI). His works are shared with a wider audience through his YouTube channel, “Michael Peria,” where he regularly uploads responsorial psalm videos.

His latest composition, Hymn of the Pilgrims of Hope, showcases the profound beauty of sacred music and its power to convey the message of faith and hope. The hymn, performed by the Hyderabad Archdiocesan Choir, can be viewed on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ze49FMGr8NI

YouTube Channel: Michael Peria

By Catholic Connect Reporter