Ancient of Days sung at Jackie Robinson Celebration

As a songwriter I never know how and when my songs will be used. Gary Sadler and I have seen Ancient of Days on TV shows, in a movie, and now...check this out! Songs make their way into some incredible places. I am proud of this one. Thanks for the head's up, Gary!
________________________________________

Intercessor Choir Glorifies God at a NY Mets Baseball Game

On Monday, April 19, 2010, the choir of the Cathedral Church of the Intercessor graced a special day of celebration at Citifield, home of the New York Mets baseball team.

April 19 commemorated the special contribution of Jackie Robinson to our nation’s history and spiritual well-being. Jackie Robinson was the first African American man to play major league baseball. Robinson joined the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1945. He faced down threats and insults while establishing a solid record as one of baseball’s most gifted players, and broke the stronghold of racism over American sports. The celebration of Robinson’s life at Citifield on April 19 included an appearance by Robinson’s wife Rachel, head of the Jackie Robinson foundation. The baseball teams (New York Mets vs. Chicago Cubs) were distinguishable only by uniform color: all players on both sides wore Jackie Robinson’s number, 42, on their backs.

At 6:30 p.m. the PA system announced, “Ladies and gentlemen, here to help us celebrate Jackie Robinson Day – the Church of the Intercessor Choir!” The choir launched into a brisk, powerful rendition of Ron Kenoly’s “Ancient of Days,” conducted by Father Joe Ciccarello, head of the Intercessor Music Ministry and Dean of the Cathedral Church of the Intercessor. Choir and band member Paul Ammendola sang the solo part. Modern technology made it possible for the choir not just to be heard, but also seen. As the praises resounded throughout the stadium, the choir appeared on a gigantic screen overlooking center field, their black uniforms with red and white collars crisp and their faces joyful in the sunlight.

“Ancient of Days” concluded and the choir then began a song most fitting for the theme of the day: “We Can Make a Difference,” by Mark Heimermann and David Mullen. Associate Director of Music and Creative Arts Kelly Tanza conducted this one, with solo parts sung by Victoria Perrone. Loud and genuine applause greeted the ending of the song. Their worshipful performance concluded, the music ministry members joined Archbishop Craig Bates, his wife Cathy, and about 100 other Intercessor members to watch the Mets win, 6-1.