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Anthem for Pope’s visit in Madagascar: a symbol of hope, says composer

Luc Dominique Rabosaiky, composer of the anthem.

The anthem of the Pope’s apostolic visit to Madagascar has been described as a symbol of hope of the Malagasy people in the risen Christ, its composer has disclosed to ACI Africa.

“I thank God who gave me the inspiration to compose this song which reveals the hope of the Malagasy people for change in their spiritual life and for improved living conditions in the country” said Luc Dominique Rabosaiky, composer of the anthem.

The leader of the Nyainga choir said the theme of the Holy Father’s visit to Madagascar inspired him in composing the song.

“Sower of peace and hope which was the theme of the annual assembly of the Bishops Conference of Madagascar gave me insights into how to develop the song” he stated before adding “the struggles of the Catholic Church in Madagascar as well as the sufferings of the population gave a special touch to this anthem.”

“That is why I say it is not my composition but that of the entire Malagasy people,” he added.

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The anthem which is divided into three parts was selected amongst 30 others in q competition launched in view of the Pope’s visit to Madagascar inspired him to write the anthem.

Luc Dominique Rabosaiky who also participated in the composition of the anthem for Saint John Paul II’s visit to Madagascar some 30 years ago explained to ACI Africa, the main message running through the anthem.

“The refrain gives thanks to God for sending his messenger of peace Pope Francis to the Island of Madagascar” he explained before adding “the Christians are in joy for they will receive God’s blessings from the Pope.”

“verse one of the anthem presents pope Francis as a modest and humble servant who wants to visit qll his people from far and near” he continued.

“We praise and give thanks to God for sending us q good shepherd. We hope and pray that the gospel will be transmitted through him,” he noted;

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The composer of the anthem disclosed to ACI Africa that the theme of peace and hope runs through the verse two of the song.

“verse two looks at the our country Madagascar that has been in political turmoil for some years now. That is why we expect Pope Francis to give us q message that will unite all of us. Holy father be the sower of hope and peace for Madagascar,” he added

The verse of the anthem presents Pope Francis as an apostle who does not relent in his mission of preaching th goodness at all times.

“The mission of the holy father is to lead the universal Church to salvation. As you come closer to the Malagasy people break the chains of hatred and open the hearts of our people to see true love,” he concluded.

Rabosaiky also disclosed that a music video of the anthem will be released after the visit of the Pope.

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Jude Atemanke is a Cameroonian journalist with a passion for Catholic Church communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of Buea in Cameroon. Currently, Jude serves as a journalist for ACI Africa.