We are discovering more and more that, in this country, the arts are becoming less and less of a priority in our schools. Music, art, and the humanities, if not completely cut off from the academic curriculum, have in most cases been displaced as “electives.” We also know that music and the other arts are not being fostered much in the home.

This is dangerous news, for the arts are critical not only in the development of the whole person but as the primary vehicle and language in which human beings express and celebrate their faith. The consequences are in direct conflict with our Roman Catholic tradition. Historically, the church was always at the forefront of artistic activity. Musically, it was the source of some of the greatest compositions and served as the financial supporter of some of the most honored composers in our history. For many cultures, the church was more than Sunday Mass — it was a way of life and center of life for the community. Music in the home was often the focal point for the family. It was certainly the case for me. It was a fabric of my life and of many others’ lives.

I remember years ago, my father (who was and still is a music teacher) saw the parish as a center for music education and formation woven into the fabric of our parish religious education program. My dad offered music theory and keyboard and guitar classes for the children in the RE program. He would present piano recitals by his students in the church space. He really tried to help the students understand that the church was more than just a place to worship; it was a place to share and grow their gifts. The parish was a place where they could celebrate the gifts that God had given them and to share that with a community of faith, family, and friends.

In my most recent column, I addressed how many people have been damaged over the years because someone told them, most often at a young age, that they were “tone deaf” or that they should not do music for some reason. We too easily blow off the effort needed to assess the musical potential in our children. As my father proved, the parish can be an environment in which our children can be affirmed and formed in their musical journey. In addition to our many activities and areas of responsibility (I know, we are already too busy), we should offer opportunities beyond the children’s choir for nurturing the pure joy of music making. Guitar-master Stephen Petrunak, my friend and colleague, does this at his parish in Sterling Heights, Mich. He teaches several lessons a week at the parish. Children need to develop a sensitivity, joy, and passion for making music both individually and, especially, with others. The issue is not the development of musical excellence but simply having a place — in this case the parish — that promotes an atmosphere where they can find their voice creatively, partnered together with their faith development.

We know that music has the power to form and shape all of us. It influences what we believe and challenges us to go further. In the liturgy, music helps us to pray. When our children are nourished and formed through music during their growing years, it will help to shape them socially and personally. The gospel message of love, peace, justice, and forgiveness, when sung and celebrated musically, can penetrate their memory and attitudes in a unique way.

This is not just a dream. My dad did it years ago, and Stephen and many others are doing it now. Give it a try. Jesus said: “Let the little children come to me.” Let us help provide our children a map to find a way there, singing and playing along the way. I believe that when we do so, the little ones will show us a new and fresh way to be church, to become children of God. ML

David Haas is director of The Emmaus Center for Music, Prayer and Ministry and campus minister and artist in residence at Benilde-St. Margaret's High School in St. Louis Park, Minn. As a composer, he has published and recorded more than 35 collections of liturgical music. He is an active author, workshop and retreat leader, pastoral musician and recording artist.