At issue are studies coming out of Europe where churches have been hot spots of the spread of the coronavirus, especially in choirs. They have discovered that the projection of singing can transmit the virus up to twenty feet even with a mask in place. Meanwhile, the deep, diaphragm breathing of singing pulls the virus deeper into a person's lungs, making the cases more severe.
If you know me at all, you should know that I love singing; it is part of who I am. Not getting the opportunity to sing at church these past couple of months has been a penance that I have not enjoyed. Second to receiving the Eucharist, I have most been looking forward to singing at mass once again. To find that it might not be a possibility for an entire year (perhaps more) brought me to tears today.
Certainly, Alaskan bishops might go a different route, but with more dioceses and even countries taking this step, I'm thinking that is looking less likely (not that I had even considered this possibility before). As a cantor, I might still have the chance to sing, but it pains me to think that the congregation might not be able to join with me. No sung Gloria. No joining the choirs of angels and saints in their song of praise.
I will try to lift the songs in my heart if I cannot with my voice.