A friend shared this on Facebook and I just saw it. I had to share it. Likely, you’ve already seen it. I’m often behind a good bit on what’s going on in the media.

Fr. Ray Kelly, a 64 year-old parish priest in Ireland, became something of an internet sensation four years ago when his rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” during a wedding at which he presided when viral. Recently, he auditioned for Britain’s Got Talent, where he sang REM’s ballad “Everybody Hurts.” He said, as a priest, he encounters a lot of people who are hurting, and also those who are experiencing joy. As such, the song is, “near and dear” to his heart.

After a bit of chit-chat in which Fr. Kelly revealed that he also has a great sense of humor, he began his performance. It was remarkable. It was beautiful. The audience was literally mesmerized. You could have heard a pin drop through the entire theatre, and the silence continued after Fr. Kelly finished his performance, as the audience sat stunned at what they had just heard, until Simon Cowell stood to begin what became a rousing standing ovation.

Fr. Kelly has already recorded a couple of albums, and I’m going to look for them.

One final quick thought: I’m so glad Father wore his clericals.

There’s really nothing more to say. Listen and enjoy.

Be Christ for all. Bring Christ to all. See Christ in all.