Largest-ever Diocese of Greensburg youth choir kicks off FamilyFest

A choir of more than 60 young people — the largest youth choir ever assembled in the Diocese of Greensburg — sang Sunday at an outdoor Mass that kicked off the diocese’s FamilyFest.

The event was held at the Christ Our Shepherd Center in Unity.

The honors choir was created specifically for FamilyFest, with students in grades 5 to 12 chosen from 19 schools and parishes around the diocese.

“Getting young people to realize their gift in this at a really young age is planting seeds for the future,” said the aptly named Tom Octave, diocesan director of sacred music. He led the choir with his wife Sara, pastoral associate for youth and young adult ministries at Mount St. Peter Parish in New Kensington.

More than 1,000 people registered to attend FamilyFest, according to the diocese.

“It shows that people love their faith, it shows that people love their church, and it shows that people love the outdoors,” Bishop Edward C. Malesic said.

After the outdoor Mass, parishioners enjoyed food vendors, bounce houses, face painting, music and games.

It was the second diocesan FamilyFest. The event was created last year.

This year it ties into Malesic’s message for parishioners for this summer: “Don’t take a vacation from your faith.”

“It’s good to see the church being vibrant,” Malesic said.

Kids in the choir said it was an honor to participate.

“To be selected is a very special thing,” Brody Porter, 16, of Lower Burrell said.

Porter’s brother, Chase, 9, said the choir was a chance to meet new friends, hang out with old ones and participate in special church events.

“It’s just good plain fun,” he said.

Sara Octave said getting kids involved in music is one way to help them feel part of the church.

“A lot of times, kids are in the position of being taught and talked to,” she said. “We need to make sure young people know they are parishioners, as much as adults.”

Music is one of the best ways to connect with the church, Tom Octave said.

“Being part of music helps us to grow in our faith,” he said.