When Cristina Joya and Gloria Angeles first launched the children’s choir at St Luke’s Parish, Marsden Park, they were already thinking ahead.
“We knew we needed a bridge between the kids and the adult choir,” said Cristina, Music Ministry Lead and an adviser to the parish’s St Luke’s Youth Choir.
“It was really a kind of succession plan.”
Three years later, that vision came to life in the form of the parish’s very first-ever youth choir, made up of 20 young people aged between 13 and 17 – many of them graduates from the children’s choir, following the new path created for them.
“We’re so proud to see this next chapter unfolding,” Cristina said.
“Ten of our original children’s choir members have now moved up to youth, including our two wonderful leaders, Marjorie Pasaquian and Sandy Tabuso.”
Sandy, who is also the pianist for both choirs, is a quiet but confident presence, embodying the kind of leadership the youth choir aims to nurture.
Members of the St Luke’s Marsden Park Youth Choir. Image: Supplied
Hark! The choir angels sing
The St Luke’s Youth Choir had their first official performance in March, leading the music for Saturday Mass.
They’re now rostered on for the second Saturday of each month – a rhythm that allows for consistent growth, but also space for encouragement, learning and faith formation.
Singing the same tune
A part of the youth formation, the choir recently held a team-building gathering, which included a talk from Fr Gayan Thamel, Parish Priest at St Luke’s.
“The formation of the St Luke’s Youth Choir is a real sign of life and growth in our parish,” Fr Gayan said.
Members of the St Luke’s Marsden Park Youth Choir during a team-building gathering with Parish Priest Fr Gayan Thamel. Image: Supplied
“I’m so grateful to Cristina, Gloria, and the young people who have stepped forward to lead and serve in this way,” he said.
“It’s not just about music – it’s about mission. These young voices are lifting hearts to God, inspiring our community, and building up the Church. I couldn’t be prouder of them.”
As the group continues to find its voice, Cristina and Gloria remain committed to walking alongside them, encouraging the next generation of leaders, musicians and faithful disciples.
“We pray that their love of music will transpire into a deeper connection with God, who will remain in their hearts through their whole lives,” Cristina said.
This parish initiative aligns with Formation and Community, priorities in the Diocesan Pastoral Plan, to support a Church that is inclusive, welcoming, and renewed in spirit and prayer.
