Saint Caesarius of Arles and the Singing of Hymns

Abstract

ABSTRACT:The interests and activities of Caesarius of Arles (470–542) are somewhat perennial. A very pastoral bishop, at a time when Franks, Goths and Burgundians vied for influence, he respected the linguistic, ethnic and political diversities of his flock and era, seeking to instruct his ignorant peoples (we have over 200 of his sermons), equipping them to practise their religion. Like Ephrem and Ambrose, he appreciated the role of words and music in "soft" formation, that is, the ability of hymns and songs to offer a vehicle for liturgical participation that unites the congregation, and to remain in the memory and continue working outside the time of the liturgy.