The Apostolic Nuncio to Southern Africa, Archbishop Henryk Mieczysław Jagodziński warmly invites music lovers and enthusiasts to attend Symphony of Grace, a series of classical music and opera concerts to be held in Pretoria and Johannesburg later this month under the patronage of the Apostolic Nunciature.
Recalling the words of Saint Augustine, “Qui bene cantat bis orat” – “He who sings well prays twice,” Archbishop Jagodziński noted that sacred music has long been a privileged expression of prayer and faith. In his invitation, he describes the concerts as “an evening in which the beauty of sacred music and opera will elevate our hearts to God.”
Featuring classical vocalist Guy Bertrand K and accompanist Bernard Jadrjievich, the concerts will offer audiences an opportunity to experience a programme of classical music and opera arias inspired by beauty, faith and grace.
“Music is a universal language that speaks to the heart and lifts the soul. Through beauty and harmony, it has the power to unite people and open them to deeper reflection and hope,” Archbishop Jagodziński said.
The first concert will take place on 20 June at Nazareth House in Waterkloof, Pretoria, from 5pm to 7pm. A second performance will follow on 21 June at the Cathedral of Christ the King in Doornfontein, Johannesburg, from 4pm to 6pm.
Guy Bertrand K is a classical vocalist whose repertoire includes sacred music, inspirational works and celebrated opera arias. His performances draw on the rich traditions of classical and liturgical music, bringing timeless compositions to contemporary audiences.
He will be joined by Bernard Jadrjievich, an accomplished accompanist whose musical collaboration will provide the foundation for the concert programme. The partnership promises an evening showcasing the beauty and enduring appeal of the classical tradition.
The concerts are being presented under the patronage of the Apostolic Nunciature in Southern Africa, reflecting the Catholic Church’s long-standing support for the arts as a means of promoting cultural enrichment, spiritual reflection and human dignity.
In his written invitation, Archbishop Jagodziński expressed the hope that “the harmony of these melodies may inspire us to rediscover the presence of divine grace in our lives and strengthen our communion with one another in faith, hope, and charity.” He added that through the gift of song, the concert would become “more than a cultural event; it will become an act of prayer, contemplation, and thanksgiving.”
Classical music has occupied a central place in the life of the Church for centuries, inspiring generations through sacred compositions, choral works and operatic masterpieces. The Symphony of Grace concerts seek to continue that tradition by bringing together music lovers, members of the Catholic community and the wider public for a celebration of artistic excellence and spiritual enrichment.
Enquiries and reservations may be directed to François Ekoko, whose contact details appear on the concerts’ banners.
- South African and Lebanese children pray Rosary across continents - June 15, 2026
- What The Pope Said This Week - June 14, 2026
- Neocatechumenal Way Meets Archbishop Sipuka - June 12, 2026
