Kochi: Priestly duties involve assuaging fears and raising hope as devotees are beset with problems. In the wake of recurring natural calamities in Kerala, people have been faced with immense odds on account of bereavement, injuries and property loss. In a novel initiative, a group of priests in the state's Ernakulam district formed a band and rendered a song in order to uplift the mood of the dejected people.

This song of survival, dubbed Uyir Pattu, has been brought out by the The Twelve Band, an initiative of the Catholic priests of the Archdiocese of Ernakulam-Angamaly.

The song, uploaded on YouTube, is making waves on internet. It highlights the spirit of brotherhood among people of Kerala that is capable of overcoming any calamity.

Pilgrim Communications, the media section of the archdiocese, leads The Twelve Band -- the name denoting the 12 disciples of Jesus Christ.

"During get-togethers, priests used to sing songs. That's how this band of priests started," Pilgrims Communications director Father Jacob Koroth said.

"Ideas from everyone were incorporated into the song. The song lauds the kindness shown by people during the floods," he added.

The song begins with street vendor Naushad, who made headlines after he donated all his fresh stock of clothes for relief efforts. The song also remembers the fishermen, who came forward to rescue the stranded during the floods last year.

Most of the song has been picturised along the beach. The priests appear in their holy attire in the song.

Father Nibin Kurishingal penned the lyrics and composed the song. Fr Jacob Koroth and Fr James Thottiyil directed the song video. Fr Ebey Edassery, Fr Cherian Nereveettil and Fr Melvin Chittinappilly are the singers.

Fr Juby Joy Kalathiparambil, Fr Sajo Padayatty, Fr Ebey Edassery and Fr Jackson Xavier handled the percussion.

Fr Jacob Koroth said that the song has received very good response and this has encouraged them to come up with more songs.

The band's first song had also garnered much attention.