Only ten days until the 50th anniversary edition of the Misa Campesina. We would still welcome more singers and musicians to join. First rehearsal (of two) will be this Saturday 27.9., 10am till noon at Blackfriars, St. Giles.

Only ten days until the 50th anniversary edition of the Misa Campesina. We would still welcome more singers and musicians to join. First rehearsal (of two) will be this Saturday 27.9., 10am till noon at Blackfriars, St. Giles.

Singers and musicians wanted!
The Oxford León Association are delighted that once again Blackfriars have agreed to host the beautiful Misa Campesina – the Nicaraguan Folk Mass – which will be celebrated on Sunday 5 October, at the 9.30 am Mass at Blackfriars, 64 St Giles Oxford OX1 3LY. Rehearsals for musicians and singers in the choir on Saturday 27 September and Saturday 4 October, 10 – 12 at Blackfriars.
This year is the 50th Anniversary of the composition of the Misa by Carlos Mejia Godoy and others in 1975. It emerged from the socio-political context of pre-revolution Nicaragua, blending folk music with liberation theology to create a liturgy that resonated deeply with the struggles and hopes of the Nicaraguan people. As it marks its 50th anniversary in 2025, its legacy continues to inspire movements for justice and faith-based activism globally.
The Mass, which is sung in Spanish, has been sung annually (except for covid times) in Oxford since 1986, it has “passionate lyrics and complex rhythms reflecting the richness of the Nicaraguan folk tradition”. It is a very enjoyable and happy experience!
We are looking for Musicians and Singers to perform the Misa – whether you are an experienced singer/musician who has taken part many times before or whether you would be taking part for the first time – we need you!

The choir rehearsing for the misa in 2017. Photo: Michael Gross.
PS in other news, the next meeting of the Oxford León Association will be on Tuesday 16 September, 7 pm at the Town Hall, all welcome!