JW_Rogue
Yes, why new songs on a special holiday? Wouldn't you want some traditional songs that everyone knows how to sing already? To me this is way to make families sing these songs at home. Practicing the song is further brainwashing for parents and children. Many will do it because they won't want the congregation to sound terrible singing a song they have never even heard
I agree. Take Christmas for instance...people love their traditional songs that go with this important holiday. Just the sound of the rich stirring music brings back memories of previous Christmas celebrations, thereby strengthening and enriching the bonds to the celebration and continuing it in to the next generation.
Also, some folks come out once a year to Memorial but it does maintain that "tie" to the religion slightly. Going in and hearing nothing familiar will lend a feeling of unfamiliarity and discomfort and loosen that already tenacious tie.
This was not a good move on their part. Or should I say, not going to achieve what they are hoping.