(Photo by Manuel Yamsuan, taken from Kenneth Parsad’s Facebook profile)
January 19, 2016, 6:10p.m. – THE FORMER theology student who sang the psalms for Pope Francis’ Mass at Manila Cathedral last year, and captured social media attention in the process, is set to release an album under Universal Records this year.
Kenneth Parsad, now a theology instructor at the UST Institute of Religion, said he wanted to use his “fame” to record an album to inspire the youth from the spiritual aspect.
“It’s (releasing an album) a good opportunity for the youth because there are [few] Catholic inspirational singers,” Parsad told the Varsitarian.
Parsad, 23, who was sent by the Diocese of Bangued to study at the UST Central Seminary, said he wanted to motivate the youth in avoiding materialism and bringing God into their lives.
“Gadgets do not give happiness nor does sex. When God is near you, you can be happy. No other can give you [that kind of] happiness,” Parsad said.
The theology instructor has recorded five songs for the forthcoming album, including “My Soul Finds Rest” by Fr. Arnel Aquino, S.J., of Ateneo de Manila University, and remakes “Still” by Hillsong United, and “I Will Be Here For You” by Michael Smith.
Parsad said the adulation he received following the Jan. 16, 2015 Papal Mass did not give him any doubts about his vocation. He said he decided to go on a break, or regency, after his theology studies even before the Holy Father’s visit.
“I really want to clarify this issue. I already decided to have a break after my theology [studies]. I took my regency because I am not yet ready,” Parsad said. Gabriel M. Agcaoili
