On Monday, the volunteer Philadelphia 2015 Papal Choir kicked off rehearsals for the performance that will accompany September’s Papal Mass on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway on Monday.

The choir is composed of 250 members, representing parishes from the five counties in the region. The Archdiocese of Philadelphia estimates that the choir will grow to 500 members by the time of Pope Francis' visit during the World Meeting of Families, with the expected additions of the Archdiocesan Children’s and High School Choirs.

Monday's rehearsal focused on "The Spirit of the Lord" by Philip Stopford. 

Bishop John J. McIntyre addressed the choir beforehand, expressing 

"I know that you all know the importance of music in the sacred liturgy," Bishop McIntyre said. "By placing yourself at the service of all those who are gathered for mass, you enable them to offer that sacrifice of praise to God."

The Papal mass will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2015.