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Imagine that your job is to run the music program at your church. You are good at it and you love your job – but you have to admit there are little problems here and there that get in the way of a smooth worship service. Then imagine your boss (i.e. the priest) gets so frustrated with the glitches that he declares “no more music.” What do you do? What’s your purpose now?

On June 5, when we go to our summer worship schedule (one 9:30 AM Service) the music program will present A Festival of Hymns: The Writers Tell Their Stories. You will have the opportunity to “meet” the songwriter that lived through that experience and see how he handled that bizarre situation.  You’ll also meet other hymn writers that span the range of Christian song – from 340 AD to the present. You’ll have a chance to hear about their struggles and inspirations.  For instance:

Who fought off attackers by singing hymns with “frightening fervor?”

Who was originally trained as a lawyer?

Who was blind from birth?

Whose main inspiration for writing was dissatisfaction with the “old style” of singing?

After we hear the writers’ stories we will sing one of their hymns/songs.  Expect a music-filled service featuring the Chancel Choir, Praise Team, Brees Bells and most importantly, the congregation.

Spread the word to come sing on Sunday, June 5 at 9:30 AM!

(originally published May 25, 2016)