Today, I had my first turn as cantor during choir prayer. It’s such a beautiful responsibility—to be able to sing for the glory of God, for my beloved Jesus. I had asked HIM for His help beforehand, and then I was quite surprised that I was less nervous than I had feared.
You really do gain experience in taking on tasks where everyone's attention is focused on you (or at least could be). Whether it’s serving at the table, reading during meals, leading Compline, or now, being the cantor.
In doing this, you serve the community, but at the same time, the community shows a great deal of trust by allowing you to take on these responsibilities. The person leading the choir service shapes the entire prayer. Again and again, that one voice is heard, and mistakes can potentially throw off the whole convent and disrupt everyone's prayer.
By taking on various responsibilities, you grow deeper and deeper into the community. You feel increasingly accepted and integrated, and you yourself become a more natural part of the whole.
Not too long ago, I couldn’t imagine that it would go well when I had to sing alone in front of so many listening ears. But it went well, and I am truly happy that I get to sing. My whole life shall be a hymn of praise to God, my LORD!
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