A special service marking the patron saint’s day for the Weiler parish community was broadcast live on Austrian public broadcaster ORF November 16. The service coincided with the annual observance of World Day of the Poor, initiated by Pope Francis in 2017 to highlight issues of social and economic injustice [[1]]. Vicar Willi’s sermon offered reflections on generosity, while the event featured musical performances from the Weiler Church Choir and instrumentalists.
A special service led by Vicar Willi on November 16 was broadcast live by ORF, Austria’s public service broadcaster, as the community marked its patron saint’s day.
The service coincided with the first annual “World Day of the Poor,” established in 2017 by Pope Francis, drawing attention to issues of social justice and economic disparity. During his sermon, Vicar Willi offered a unique perspective on generosity, stating, “Sharing does not mean halving, but multiplying; not losing, but gaining.”
The Weiler Church Choir, directed by Michael Fliri, provided the musical backdrop for the service with a performance of Tjark Baumann’s Missa for Yout(th). Instrumentalists Mayya Melichenko on keyboard, Lukas Nussbaumer on saxophone, and Willi Kaufmann on drums accompanied the choir.
Psalm 117 by Jochen Rieger was recited after the reading, followed by the hymn “When We Bring Our Gifts” (GL 766) during the offering and “Taste and See” by James E. Moore during communion. The service concluded with the traditional Martinmas hymn (GL 454), featuring soloist Veronika Harbisch, and a recessional hymn, “Give Thanks” by Henry Schmith.
Following the service, the parish council hosted a coffee hour at the parish hall, providing an opportunity for fellowship and continued conversation within the community.
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