THE MINISTRY OF MUSIC: A GIFT FROM GOD
Visiting worship here over a number of Sundays, you might experience music in forms
spanning centuries...hymns, choral anthems, bell anthems, instrumentalists, organ and piano might well be
offering praise to God composed in the 1800's as well as in 1980 - classical, contemporary, traditional,
early-American, gospel and jazz.
As a church, it is our vision to glorify and praise God through a variety of musical expressions that both
honor our heritage and yet speak to contemporary life. God is not so narrow that He can only be praised
with historic music. We are a church family of individuals who are comfortable with a variety of musical sounds,
tempos and lyrics. As listeners, we derive different meanings from the same music. While as individuals,
we may not relate to each and every one of these sounds, we accept those that may be less pleasing to our
ears out of love and care for those among us of different generations, religious or social backgrounds.
The Ministry of Music is directed by Mr. Larry Deweese, our accomplished organist,
pianist, choral director, vocal soloist and teacher. He leads this ministry that is inclusive, utilizing
the talents of all musicians in the congregation and surrounding communities while providing a variety of
music to enhance and vitalize the worship experience.
While the organ and piano anchor congregational and choral singing, flutes, trombone, trumpets, guitars,
French horn, violin, drums or hand bells are frequently added.
Our choirs have few age barriers:
Celebration Singers
(Singers Teens to Seniors)
Rehearse on Wednesday evenings 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This choir
sings most Sundays (except summer months).
Celebration Ringers
(Handbell ringers Teens to Seniors)
Rehearse Wednesday evenings 6:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This bell choir rings often.
Joyful Noise Choir
(Children singers pre-kindergarten and above)
Rehearse Wednesday afternoons at 4:00 p.m. They enjoy movement, singing and instructions. The
choir sings at least once a month.
Teen Ringers
(Handbell ringers teenagers)
Rehearse on Sundays as scheduled and ring occasionally.
Junior Ringers
(Beginner hand bell ringers, 4th-6th Grade)
Rehearse on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. These beginners play
as anthems are prepared.
During the summer months, worship music is provided by small groups,
soloists - both vocal and instrumental.