All-star musical welcome awaits Pope Francis

Jed Madela is happy to sing one of his, and his grandma’s, favorite songs.

Jamie Rivera isn’t the only well-known recording artist expected to sing at official Papal Visit events this week.

Powerhouse singer Jed Madela will perform the uplifting “Light of a Million Mornings” during Pope Francis’ encounter with the youth at University of Santo Tomas (UST) today. “I’m so happy to be singing it; it’s one of my favorites and my grandmother’s, too,” Madela told the Philippine Daily Inquirer in a text message. “I really hope [to meet the Pope].”

Lyca’s wish

In television interviews, Erik Santos, Angeline Quinto, Lyca Gairanod and Darren Espanto likewise confirmed that they will perform for the Pontiff.

Taking the stage at UST is “The Voice Kids” first runner-up Darren, who will render the Trina Belamide-penned “Tell the World of His Love”—official theme of the 1995 World Youth Day attended by Pope, now Saint, John Paul II. “Not everyone gets the chance to get that close to the Pope and sing for him,” he said. “To me he is a symbol of kindness.”

“The Voice Kids” champion Lyca performed the same song during the meeting with families at Mall of Asia Arena on Friday. At press time, however, all she could think of was taking a selfie with Pope Francis. “I’d like to get close enough to ask him to bless my family,” she said. “That would make me very happy.”

Erik Santos is “honored” that he was chosen to perform.

Erik’s prayer

Angeline hopes to bring her mother to UST, where she will sing “Eagle’s Wings.” Given the chance to meet the Pontiff, she said, “I’d simply thank him for all the love he gives the Philippines.”

Like everyone else, Erik is praying for a face-to-face encounter. “I’m so honored that I have been chosen to sing for him,” said the balladeer, who’s tasked to tackle the Responsorial Psalm in today’s Holy Mass at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park.

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