The official hymn for the World Meeting of Families 2018, “A Joy of Love for all the World”, has been released ahead of next summer’s event.
Composer Ephrem Feeley (centre) with wife Giovanna and Cardinal Kevin Farrell at the launch of the official hymn for the World Meeting of Families 2018
Irish composer Ephrem Feeley found inspiration for the hymn in Amoris Laetitia, or The Joy of Love, a document written by Pope Francis in 2016 reflecting on the challenges facing families in today’s world.
“The experience of love in families is a perennial source of strength for the life of the Church,” writes Pope Francis, and Mr Feeley draws on that unique and marvellous experience of love in this beautiful hymn.
Preparations are currently in place for the celebrations in August 2018, as Ireland looks ahead to the much-anticipated visit of Pope Francis. The theme of the World Meeting of Families is “The Gospel of the Family: Joy for the World”, and it is with this in mind that we remember Pope Francis’ encouraging words:
“Young love needs to keep dancing towards the future with immense hope.”
Listen to “A Joy of Love for all the World” and watch the official video on the World Meeting of Families 2018 website.