- 12 September, 2026
September 12, 2026: For centuries, Christian music has helped believers express what words alone sometimes cannot.
From ancient hymns to contemporary worship, music has been woven deeply into the life of the Church. This year, the Holy Redeemer Redemptorist Media Center (RMC) is continuing that tradition by inviting emerging Christian musicians to share their faith through its fourth St. Cecilia’s Christian Music Video Festival.
The festival, held in honour of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians, offers undiscovered Christian artists an opportunity to create and present original worship music in any language.
St. Cecilia is one of the most beloved early Christian martyrs. According to Christian tradition, she lived in Rome and remained faithful to Christ despite persecution. She was eventually martyred for her faith and became associated with music and singing.
Her connection with music is traditionally linked to accounts of her wedding, during which she is said to have sung to God in her heart. Over time, this association developed into a powerful Christian tradition portraying Cecilia as a woman whose deepest song was directed towards God.
The Church therefore remembers St. Cecilia not simply as a patron of musicians, but as an example of how artistic gifts can become expressions of faith. Her feast day, celebrated on 22 November, has become an important occasion for musicians, choirs and composers around the world.
The Holy Redeemer festival seeks to build on that spiritual tradition. Participants are invited to submit original music and lyrics that inspire prayer, praise and worship of God.
The organisers are encouraging musicians to participate either individually or as groups, with compositions accepted in any language. The emphasis is not simply on musical performance but on using creativity to communicate faith.
The festival also aims to give lesser-known Christian artists a platform to reach a wider audience and share their gifts with the Catholic community.
Entries must be submitted as high-quality videos with a resolution of 1080p or higher. Videos should be in MP4 or MPV format and must not exceed five minutes.
Artists are also expected to ensure clear audio with minimal background noise. Most importantly, the music and lyrics must be original, with participants retaining full copyright of their work.
By submitting an entry, artists grant RMC non-exclusive rights to use their audio and video content. Entries that meet the selection criteria will be featured, while outstanding original submissions will receive special recognition on the RMC YouTube Channel.
Christian musicians wishing to participate have until 15 October 2026 to submit their registrations.
Registrations can be made by email at communications@theholyredeemer.org or via WhatsApp at +91 7625 088 500.
For aspiring Christian artists, the festival offers more than a competition. It is an invitation to follow the example of St. Cecilia: to use the gift of music not merely for applause, but to lift hearts towards God.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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