Music & Liturgy Notes

June 23

In today’s Gospel from Luke, we read about the healing of a man possessed by a demon named “Legion," which Jesus casts out. As a companion to the Gospel, we’ll sing Charles Wesley’s beloved hymn “O for a thousand tongues to sing.” Charles Wesley, who alongside his brother John, was a leader of the Methodist movement, wrote this text on May 21, 1739, the first anniversary of his evangelical conversion. Peter Böhler, the Moravian bishop who was instrumental in this conversion a year earlier, remarked, “Had I a thousand tongues, I would praise Him with them all,” hence the origin of this memorable title. This hymn has always held a place of honor in the Methodist tradition. In practically every edition of the Methodist hymnal since 1780, it was the opening hymn.

Today, organ works of Dieterich Buxtehude will be heard as part of the service. Buxtehude (1637-1707) spent a great portion of his career as the Organist for the Marienkirche in Lübeck, in the north of Germany- one of the most prestigious musical positions in all of Europe. His skill as a composer and organist was highly regarded and he was a major influence, particularly on Johann Sebastian Bach, who traveled to Lübeck from Central Germany on foot (over 250 miles) to study with him for several months and to hear his famed “Abendmusiken,” an annual series of concerts taking place at the Marienkirche on the five Sundays before Christmas.

Jubilation Choir

The Jubilation Choir is open to boys and girls 5th grade through high school. The choir performs on Youth Sundays and special services during the program year. The choir rehearses after the 10:00 am service from 11:15 to noon in the choir room. Schola Cantorum also invites those interested to learn to play our set of hand chimes and other instruments while developing musicianship skills.

Annual Meeting Slideshow:
A look back at 2018

Children's Service

JOY worship runs all year long! Sunday service and eucharist perfect for children ages infant-5yrs. Come be part of the fun from 9:15-9:45AM.

Adult Choir

Do you love to sing? Please consider joining our choir and participating in a vital ministry. The choir musically leads our services each Sunday at 10 am. The choir’s repertoire includes great masterpieces from our Anglican tradition as well as beloved classics along with spirituals and contemporary choral works. We have openings for all voice parts.

Youth African Drumming

Youth of all ages are welcome to join the African Drumming Troupe. The Youth African Drumming Troupe performs on the first Sunday of every month. This group is led by Marlene Whittemore Pillow directly following Sunday School on the first Sunday of the month, in one of the lower level classrooms. Bring your drum if you have one. All are welcome!