One of the first choir anthems that I learned while singing in the Adult Choir at my home church was “God So Loved the World” by John Stainer. It is a part of a larger work by this composer called “The Crucifixion” in 1887. I was 14 years old and will never forget it. The scripture it is based on is John 3:16-17. The anthem itself is within the realm of pieces that are subject to interpretation by each conductor who attempts to teach it. I think that most of us have learned it the same way and continue to pass down the tradition of performance practice – meaning, “how it’s done.” We will be singing this piece on Sunday without accompaniment (a cappella). On the following Sunday, April 6, the Chancel Choir will present a new anthem. It’s based on an old song that many of us learned in youth choir growing up. “Dry Bones,” arranged by Mark Hayes, is a different take on the song but maintains the character of the original. Rev. Jim Jackson will be preaching on the story of Ezekiel 37:1-10, and this was the perfect opportunity to sing this fun song. “….the thigh bone connected to the hip bone, the hip bone connected to the back bone, the back bone connected to the shoulder bone……Now hear the word of the Lord!”

In your bulletin, you will find the schedule for Holy Week. The journey begins on April 13 with Palm Sunday with community services during the week and culminating in Easter Sunday with a service at the pier at sunrise, our 8:30 and 10:30 services, which will be identical, and a luncheon and Easter Egg Hunt to follow. There is also an opportunity to purchase Easter flowers (this year – lilies) online and in the office.

I would be remiss if I didn’t thank some people! First, our Chancel Ringers played beautifully last Sunday. There are new ringers up there and it’s going strong! Thank you for your commitment. The children’s musical was so much fun. It wouldn’t be possible without the adult and youth helpers that come on Wednesday to assist Frieda and I in our work. Parents, thank you for committing to each Wednesday afternoon. Your children are having a great time, and so are we. The Variety Show is coming on April 23, and the children will do at least one number from the show. The flood buckets are full and about to be taken to Raleigh, NC, for distribution to those in need of supplies. The donations have been great and have allowed us to prepare 30 buckets so far.

There will be no music activities or rehearsals next week except for the hard-working Chancel Ringers. Happy Spring Break to all!

Love & Gratitude, 

Rhonda 

Sunday, March 30

8:30 am Early Worship - Sanctuary

9:30 am Sunday School - Various Locations

10:30 am Late Worship - Sanctuary

11:30 am Education Meeting - Youth Suite

Monday, March 31

10:00 am PW Leadership Council - John Law

6:30 pm Al-Anon Meeting - John Law

Tuesday, April 1

9:30 am Staff Meeting - Upper Room

8:00 pm Codependents Anon - John Law

Wednesday, April 2

9:00 am Hands and Heart Quilting Ministry - Music Attic

10:00 am Grief Support Group - Parlor

5:00 pm Chancel Ringers - Sanctuary

Thursday, April 3

4:00 pm Buildings and Grounds - John Law

5:30 pm ODD Book Group - John Law

Friday, April 4

No Activities Planned for This Day

Sunday, April 6

8:30 am Early Worship - Sanctuary

9:00 am Confirmation Class - Youth Suite

9:30 am Sunday School - Various Locations

10:30 am Late Worship - Sanctuary

5:00 pm Youth Ensemble - Music Attic

6:00 pm Youth Group - Youth Suite

Monday, April 7

9:00 am Manna House - 1408 G Street

2:00 pm Tech Meeting - Upper Room

4:00 pm Congregational Life - Upper Room

6:30 pm Al-Anon Meeting - John Law

Tuesday, April 8

7:00 am Youth Devotions -Yellow Deli

9:30 am Staff Meeting - Upper Room

10:00 am PW Morning Glories - Upper Room

12:00 pm PW Lunch Bunch - Britt Room

4:00 pm PW Ladies of the Night - Upper Room

8:00 pm Codependents Anon - John Law

Wednesday, April 9

10:00 am Men's Bible Study - Upper Room

11:00 am Early Music Ensemble - Rhonda's Office

3:00 pm Chancel Ensemble - Sanctuary

4:00 pm Kidz Crew - Veranda

5:00 pm Chancel Ringers - Sanctuary

6:00 pm Wednesday Night Supper - Social Hall

6:45 pm Chancel Choir - Sanctuary

Thursday, April 10

9:00 am Congregational Care Team - John Law

10:00 am Women's Bible Study - Upper Room

5:30 pm ODD Book Group - John Law

Friday, April 11

No Activities Planned for This Day