One of the most common talking points that I have had with congregants about what they miss most in this pandemic has been music; the opportunity to sing together safely, to make a joyful noise. I share this sentiment – as someone who is usually in too many choirs for his own good, I have been missing the opportunity to sing in a group setting.
However, this doesn’t mean that we haven’t been making a joyful noise unto the Lord! In these same conversations, folks have been telling me about the things that have helped them get through these difficult months, and music was right up there. Staying at home more and with a general increase in online activity, folks are discovering or rediscovering music that has supported them. Whether it be songs of strength and courage, songs that voice the lament and loss experienced, or songs of hope for a better tomorrow, many of our hymns and other songs have been a lifeline, to myself included.
Plus, we have been blessed to have our music directors at Brussels and Blyth contribute their music ministry to our online services. Katie, Marilyn, Glenda, and all of our talented musicians have lifted our voices and spirits each Sunday, and with the few in-person musical events we were able to have in the fall.
With this in mind, the music directors and myself thought that we should dedicate an entire service to the ministry of music. Our pre-recorded service for Sunday, February 7th will be a Music Celebration Service. This service will include selections and reflections on what music has meant to us, how it has sustained us this past year, and other music that has a special meaning to our lives of faith.
We want to hear from you! We want to hear your hymn/song suggestions for this service. Even more so, we would love to have some reflections on why this hymn/song means so much to you, or what music means in general to your lives of faith. And for those members and friends of our congregations who are musical, you are encouraged to submit your own song recordings as well! We want this to be a communal celebration of the music we miss and the music that has sustained us, all giving thanks and praise to the God whose song is love made known.
You can submit your hymn suggestions, reflections, or recordings to Alex or our music directors (Glenda Morrison, Katie Dockstader, Marilyn Scott). Reach out to any one of us, email us, or send a message to our Facebook page. Those offering brief reflections on what music or a particular song meant to them are welcome to record themselves, or it can be read on their behalf in our service. You can reach Alex by email at minister.brusselsandblythuc@gmail.com, or leave a message at either church office.
We look forward to hearing how music has sustained you during these difficult times and other times in your life. And may our prayers and actions reflect the care and community we need at this time to get to the point where we may sing altogether again. Blessings to you all!
Feature Photo by Laura Seaman on Unsplash
Brussels & Blyth United Churches 