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…..And, we’re off and running. All groups have now begun practicing music to be shared in the future. Why join a choir or ensemble? Because it’s fun, it puts us with people that love the art as much as we do, and it helps with self-expression – the Praise of God is the umbrella to all of these reasons! The joy of making music is evident in the photo below of our youth ensemble boys. I don’t think I could have asked a better group of people to help us enhance worship on January 5th. The Chancel Choir enjoyed their presence and excellent musicianship as well. L to R in photo – Graham Holland, Finger Cymbals; Liam Holland, Chimes; Ethan Tsai, Snare Drum; and Chase Busby, Crash Cymbals. Amy Bishop played a jazzy rendition of “Go Tell it on the Mountain” to lots of applause for the prelude and we had some guests in the choir, as well. Ruth Ryberg and John Sergey’s son John added beautifully to our regulars and returning snowbirds (Craig Endicott, Wanda Guokas, and John Sergey).
Last week, the Chancel Choir sang Philip Stopford’s beautiful “Do Not Be Afraid.” Rev. Laurie Bentley sang a descant solo at the end of the piece in addition to stepping up into the pulpit to preach!! We got some talented folks….
On Sunday, the Chancel Choir will sing Beethoven’s version of “The Heavens are Telling” at the 10:30 service. In the afternoon at Rev. Rachel Rhodes installation, the choir will be singing a favorite of Rev. Rhodes’ – “O God Beyond All Praising” by Gustav Holst and arranged by Mark Hayes. The Chancel Ensemble in addition to Amy Bishop on the organ will be accompanying this piece and playing on the hymns for this very special service. It all starts at 2:00 pm, don’t miss it!
Another big Sunday happens the week after that. The First Coast Highlanders Pipes and Drums that are from Florida are getting ready to celebrate the Kirkin’ of the Tartan with us on January 26th. The 8:30 and 10:30 services will be identical in length and order. Wear yer plaidies and kilts, ye lads and lassies! Representatives of families will be carrying their tartans in the processional at both services. Many of you have signed up online and have heard from Suzanne Morrison already. If you aren’t sure or have questions, direct them to Suzanne or me. We would be glad to help.
February is Black History Month. A couple of years ago, we started singing spirituals all through the month. The sermons are planned all around spirituals, so come and see!
More on that with the next blurb (as Ada calls it! :)
Love & Gratitude,
Rhonda
P. S. We are hosting Maryville College (Tennessee) on Thursday, March 6! They will have dinner, perform a concert, and need a place to sleep that night. If you can host two or more students, please let me know. There are 40-50 students to house.
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