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U2 service brings rock to religion

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mwkruse
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BreitBart: U2 service brings rock to religion

The Pope may have condemned rock music as "anti-religion" but the Church of England has announced it is to use the songs of a global supergroup in an effort to boost congregations.

The first "U2-charist" in England, an adapted Holy Communion service that uses the Irish rock group's best-selling songs in place of hymns, is to be staged at a Lincoln church in May.

A live band will play U2 classics such as Mysterious Ways and Beautiful Day as worshippers sing along with lyrics which will appear on screen at St Swithin's parish church in the town centre.

The event will focus on the Millennium Development Goals – targets set for the alleviation of world poverty – and a cause promoted by U2 singer and lyricist Bono with fellow Irish musician Bob Geldof. …

I think about 25 years ago this winter, I stumbled across U2's "Boy" in a record shop in Aggieville, Manhattan, KS, adjacent to Kansas State University. I have been following these guys since, and I am a fan. But this service strikes a wee bit contrived. Who is being worshiped at this thing?

Comments

3 responses to “U2 service brings rock to religion”

  1. brad wright Avatar
    brad wright

    H-m-m-m-m, this is both interesting and a little scary. I would like to see a rock version of the liturgy written specifically as such. Recycling existing chart-toppers? It does feel contrived.
    Maybe as an expression of our need for God… The Rolling Stone’s “Satisfaction”?

    Reply
  2. will spotts Avatar
    will spotts

    I’ve always like U2 but this is a little creepy. U2-charist? Come on . . ..
    Throw in the Millennium Development Goals and it gets even more bizarre.

    Reply
  3. Michael Kruse Avatar
    Michael Kruse

    I actually think Bono is one of the best lyricists alive today. Some of U2’s music leads me into a spirit of worship and reflection. I would have no problem using certain songs in the context of a worship service. But this sounds more like a politcal rally disguised as a worship service to me.
    Hmmm… “Satisfaction.” It might work for the altar call. Oh wait…I’m Presbyterian…we don’t do that. Maybe the call to confession.
    🙂

    Reply

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