The Cappella Musicale (Choir) of the Papal Basilica of St Francis began 2026 with a busy and exciting schedule that included solemn Masses in Assisi for New Year’s Day and Epiphany, and a concert in the Principality of Monaco for the feast of St. Devota, the patron saint of the Principality and of Corsica. Thus, the year started with music, prayer, and meaningful encounters.
The Choir of the Papal Basilica of St Francis in Assisi began the new year on a high note.
On January 1, 2026, the Choir celebrated the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God, with the Assisi community and on January 6, it celebrated the Feast of the Epiphany. Thus, music and prayer marked the conclusion of the Christmas season at the Sacred Convent.
In the days that followed, the Choir immediately resumed rehearsals to prepare for an event that had been eagerly awaited for months: a concert in the Principality of Monaco. The Choir was invited to perform together with friends from the “Choeur de Sartène” of Corsica, on the occasion of the feast of St. Devota, the patron saint and protector of the Principality, its royal family, and also of Corsica.
On January 26, 2026, the Choir traveled to Monaco and on January 27 it was welcomed into the majestic Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate (formerly the Cathedral of St. Nicolas). The concert’s atmosphere was enhanced by the light of 2,000 candles. The cathedral was packed. Among those attending were Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco, who sang along with the Choir and offered a souvenir photo.
In the afternoon, during rehearsals, His Eminence Cardinal Pierbattista PIZZABALLA, OFM, Patriarch of Jerusalem (Gerusalemme), Palestine, paid a visit and stopped to listen to the Canticle of the Creatures by Friar Domenico STELLA.
The three days spent in Monaco were busy and filled with work, friendship, and joy. Now the Choir turns its attention to February, a month that promises fresh excitement and opportunities for encounter.
Friar Peter M. HRDY
