Jesuit magazine finds redemption theme in latest Springsteen album


The influential Italian Jesuit magazine La Civilta Cattolica has paid tribute to US musician Bruce Springsteen, suggesting his recent album inspired by the events of September 11 2001, conveys a "strong sense of redemption".

La Civilta Cattolica, a Rome-based biweekly that often reflects Vatican views on church and world affairs, dedicated 14 pages to Springsteen's music in its 5 October edition.

While noting Springsteen's ambivalent feelings about his own Catholic background, the magazine said his songs reflect a special sensitivity to the symbols of the faith and offer lessons in virtue.

In his latest album, The Rising, Springsteen presents a poetical reflection on the September 11 attacks, but with an emphasis on the eternal salvation of the victims and the resurrection of his city, it said.

SOURCE
Catholic News Service


CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY TO HONOUR SINGER AARON NEVILLE

The Catholic University of America's alumni association will honor singer Aaron Neville with its highest honour, the James Cardinal Gibbons Medal, during a ceremony later this month in Washington.

Neville is receiving the award for his "devotion to music that touches the soul and serves as an inspiration to many," said a statement by Vincentian Fr David O'Connell, Catholic University's president.

"His music, as an expression of his faith, has made a real difference in the world."

From his 1966 pop and rhythm-and-blues hit Tell It Like It Is to the present day, Neville - sometimes solo and sometimes with three siblings as The Neville Brothers - has explored the musical junctions of pop, soul, and the jazz and Creole influences of his native New Orleans.

SOURCE
Catholic News Service

LINKS
Darkness on the edge of town (The Guardian)
'The Boss' May Be Evangelist the Church Needs (Cox News Service)
Reborn in the USA (Time)
CUA to Present Gibbons Medal to Aaron Neville (Catholic University of America 30/9/02)


9 Oct 2002