MILAN (AP) — Just before disabled athletes prepare to compete on the world stage at the Winter Paralympics in Milan Cortina, a musical group from northern Italy delivered a powerful message about acceptance and unity during a special church performance.
Approximately 70 choir members, ranging from teenagers to adults in the Terzo Tempo ensemble, made the journey from nearby Abbiategrasso to Milan’s Sant’Antonio church on February 18th for their concert called “Like Yeast in the Dough.” The title draws inspiration from biblical imagery representing a quiet force that helps everyone grow from within.
The musical event was part of a broader effort by Milan’s archdiocese to use the Olympic and Paralympic Games as an opportunity to promote Christian principles.
“The Olympics and the Paralympics are not something that simply passes over our heads, but something that also touches our lives,” explained Rev. Stefano Guidi, director of the Archdiocese of Milan’s Service for Oratories and Sport.
Three years ago, Milan’s Catholic Church established a specialized department dedicated to promoting awareness about inclusion. The initiative works across neighborhood parishes and communities to create welcoming spaces for people of all abilities.
“If we focus on organizing things only for people with disabilities, we risk segregation,” noted Rev. Mauro Santoro, who oversees the program with 13 volunteers. “Instead, we try to bring everyone together — children’s catechism, sports, the simplest activities — because this is true inclusion.”
Italy’s Catholic Church relies heavily on oratories — parish facilities where young people gather after school for athletics and social activities. According to Santoro, these venues host training sessions on disability involvement and discussions about Paralympic values.
“There are testimonies from athletes, including Paralympians,” he explained. “The real challenge is to change the game so everyone can play well and participate.”
The Sant’Antonio concert embodied this philosophy through its diverse musical selection. The choir performed pieces in Italian, English, and featured a Congolese samba — choices designed to celebrate diversity and embody Olympic ideals.
“We tried to choose songs that speak about the desire to achieve something and about constant commitment because that is what really matters beyond the result,” shared choir director Silvia Gatti. “These are values that athletes believe in, but they should concern everyone.”
Operating under the motto “Where singing is unity, passion, freedom and joy,” the choir embraces members from diverse backgrounds and creates opportunities for children to perform alongside participants in their seventies.
The group has previously tackled social issues including peace advocacy and campaigns against domestic violence, highlighting their commitment to community engagement.
