A Most Wonderful Sound

by Karen Drotar | Sep 2, 2016 | Fellowship, Music

A couple weeks ago our congregation gathered for a Sunday evening of games, fellowship, and s’mores at our outdoor shelter behind the church.  While a couple people got the fire going others enjoyed a group game. There were snacks and the promise of gooey treats.  There were children, youth, and and adults of all ages. While one game was finishing up I ran over to the parsonage on the other side of our wooded area to get some roasting forks.  As I walked back I stopped and closed my eyes to listen to a most wonderful sound.  It was the sound of talking and laughter.  It echoed through the trees and it was such a blessing.  Listening to the children of God being together, enjoying the moment, joking with one another, and shouting words of encouragement is even better than hearing angels sing!

(Originally published August 5, 2016)

Sharing Music

by Julie Stuneck | Sep 2, 2016 | Fellowship, Music

A few weeks ago, two Chancel Choir members came to me with a suggestion. They thought it would be nice if the choir would go sing at the assisted living facility where one of our former choir members now lives. We brought it up at a rehearsal and there was wide-spread support for the idea. When the day came for us visit, we had a nearly full choir standing around the piano in the dining room. Many of the residents came to hear. We sang a couple anthems and then invited people to call out favorite hymns, hymn-sing-style. It was not a very complicated or long performance, but everyone had a really good time.

Many thoughts have been rattling around inside my head since that afternoon. How music is a bond that crosses time. That our singing was a form of outreach to those we didn’t know. That we were praising God through music in a new place. But for me, the most touching thing was the willingness of so many people to go out of their way to brighten someone’s day. It showed heart of our choir – which was forged through singing and praying together week after week.

I hope everyone has a chance to experience a bond like that.

P.S. I guess I should mention here that you are always welcome to join the choir – or the Praise Team or the Brees Bells – if you are looking for a little music and fellowship in your life!

(Originally published June 29, 2016)