New video: Melissa Corbett

We had a message from our friend Melissa Corbett this weekend. She and her husband have produced this video. Enjoy! Melissa played flute with our ensemble, Prophets of Praise, from its inception. She also directed our Logos ministry for children. This song sums up her passion for teaching quite nicely. She is teaching in Florida public school these days.

Music for 122312

FirstLight Gathering Song(s) Talbot, Holy is his name Advent Wreath O come, O come, Emmanuel Opening Song How great is our God (Christmas words) Prayer of Confession Response Gloria in excelsis (Taize) Offertory Canticle of the turning Closing Song What child is this 11AM Hymns 27, Gentle Mary laid her child (TEMPUS ADEST FLORIDUM) 600, Song of Mary (MORNING SONG) 53, What child is this (GREENSLEEVES) Introit O Ruler of nations (Gregorian Chant), Bartholomew Sayles Advent Wreath O come, O come, Emmanuel… Response to Forgiveness 576, Gloria, Gloria (TAIZE GLORIA) Anthem Greatorex, Tell out my soul Doxology Old Hundredth Instrumental/Organ Music Prelude: Pachelbel, From heaven above to earth I come Offertory: Joseph Martin, Morning Song Postlude: JS Bach, From heaven above to earth I come

Music for 120912

FirstLight Gathering Song(s) Talbot, Holy is his name Advent Wreath O come, O come, Emmanuel Opening Song Jesus, name above all names Prayer of Confession Response Gloria in excelsis (Taize) Offertory Tomlin, This is our God Closing Song Christ be our Light 11AM Hymns 10, On Jordan’s bank the Baptist’s cry (WINCHESTER NEW) 15, Rejoice, Rejoice Believers (LLANGLOFFAN) Introit Lynn S. Hurst, Holy Baby, Holy Child Carol Choir Advent Wreath O come thou Root of Jesse… Response to Forgiveness 576, Gloria, Gloria (TAIZE GLORIA) Anthem Donald Pearson, Advent Procession Aerie Singers; Libby Barker, soloist Doxology Old Hundredth Instrumental/Organ Music Prelude: Kathleen Wissinger, Advent Voices (Adult Handbells) Offertory: Susan Geschke, Lord of Glory (Summit Ringers) Postlude: Charles Gounod, Grand March

New organ at KCPA

Installation of a new pipe organ at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was recently completed.  The installation coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Center and the 80th of the National Symphony Orchestra (Christian Eschenbach, conductor). The organ replaces an instrument installed with the completion of the facility, which was never wholly satisfactory according to most cognoscenti. The new instrument has created its own buzz for being Canadian-built, as opposed to being an "American" instrument. Please enjoy this time-lapse video of the construction and installation of the instrument.



The music is portions of the Saint-Saens Symphony No. 3 in C Minor, the so-called "Organ Symphony."

Visuals for Advent

Our worship spaces will be enhanced this Advent season by new paraments! In the sanctuary new paraments for the lectern and pulpit use new purple fabric to symbolize the season. Also, a new "frontal" for the communion table is in place. This frontal will also act as a banner in the fellowship hall during FirstLight worship. A theme running through our Advent worship is based on the ancient "O Antiphons." These sung responses form the basis of the hymn, "O come, O come, Emmanuel." The frontal/banner includes images representative of the stanzas of the old hymn. Based on a concept by Mike Barker, Fred Barkley has created a wonderful design that includes "bonus" visual references. See if you can identify them! Many thanks are due to those who helped bring the idea and design to life: Hilda Hobson, Martha Jane Peterson, Sara LeVan and Jane Reeves. Art on the cover of our worship guides this season will be drawn from the frontal/banner.

Music for 111812

This week we are delighted to welcome the Montreat College Choir under the direction of Mr. Timothy Wilds to help lead music at both services. One of the singers in that group is Ciara Stalling, who is also one of our music scholars. The choir will sing the same selections at both services, and will be hosted at breakfast by our own music groups between services.

FirstLight
Prelude
Charles Wood, The eyes of all (Psalm 145:15)

Gathering Song(s)
Days of Elijah

Opening Song
Did you feel the mountains tremble

Prayer of Confession Response
Glory to God whose goodness

Scripture/Proclamation
Spiritual, I know the Lord

Offertory
Charles Stanford, I bind unto myself

Closing Song
Peter Lutkin, The Lord bless you and keep you
            
11AM
Hymns
555,Now thank we all our God (NUN DANKET)
414, As those of old their first fruits brought (FOREST GREEN)

Introit
Charles Wood, The eyes of all (Psalm 145:15)

Response to Forgiveness
Glory to God whose goodness

Anthem
Spiritual, I know the Lord

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Benediction Response
Peter Lutkin, The Lord bless you

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Georg Kauffmann, Nun danket alle Gott
Offertory:  Charles Stanford, I bind unto myself
Postlude:  Sigfried Karg-Elert, Chorale-Fantasie: Nun danket alle Gott

Music for 111112

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Sanctuary
As the deer

Opening Song
Come thou fount of every blessing

Prayer of Confession Response
Glory, glory, hallelujah

Offertory
Hungry

Closing Song
You are my all in all

            
11AM
Hymns
478, Praise my soul the King of heaven (LAUDA ANIMA)
391, Take my life (HENDON)
538, Lord, dismiss us with thy blessing (SICILIAN MARINERS)

Response to Forgiveness
579, Glory be to the Father (GREATOREX)

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: JS Bach, My soul exalts the Lord (BWV 648)
Offertory: JS Bach, O God, thou faithful God (BWV 767)
Postlude:  JS Bach, If thou but suffer God to guide thee (BWV 642)

Music for 110412

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
I love you Lord
This is my commandment

Opening Song
Forever

Prayer of Confession Response
Surely it is God who saves me

Creed
I give you my all (stewardship)

Offertory
Come ye sinners

Prayers
Cambodian Lord’s Prayer

Closing Song
You are holy, you are whole
            
11AM
Hymns
446, Glorious things of thee are spoken (AUSTRIAN HYMN)
428, We give thee but thing own (SCHUMANN)
You are holy, you are whole

Response to Forgiveness
Surely it is God who saves me

Anthem
Faure, Cantique de Jean Racine

Verbe égal au Très-Haut, notre unique espérance,
Jour éternel de la terre et des cieux,
De la paisible nuit nous rompons le silence:
Divin sauveur, jette sur nous les yeux.

Répands sur nous le feu de ta grâce puissante;
Que tout l'enfer fuie au son de ta voix;
Dissipe ce sommeil d'une âme languissante
Qui la conduit à l'oubli de tes lois!

Ô Christ ! sois favorable à ce peuple fidèle,
Pour te bénir maintenant assemblé;
Reçois les chants qu'il offre à ta gloire immortelle,
Et de tes dons qu'il retourne comblé.   

Word of God, one with the Most High,
in Whom alone we have our hope,
Everlasting light of heaven and earth,
We break the silence of the peaceful night;
Saviour Divine, cast thine eyes upon us!

Pour on us the fire of thy mighty grace,
That all hell may flee at the sound of the voice;
Banish the slumber of a weary soul,
That brings forgetfulness of thy laws!

O Christ, look with favour upon thy faithful people
Now gathered here to praise thee;
Receive their hymns offered to thy endless glory;
And these thy gifts, we return unto thee.

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Prayers
Cambodian Lord’s Prayer

Music for 102812

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Blindman
Made me glad

Opening Song
You are holy (Prince of peace)

Prayer of Confession Response
Halle, halle, hallelujah

Creed
Canedo, Jesus Christ is Lord

Offertory
The church’s one foundation

Closing Song
I will trust in the Lord
            
11AM
Hymns
260, A mighty fortress (EIN FESTE BURG)
282, If thou but trust in God to guide thee (WER NUR DEN LIEBEN GOTT)
I will trust in the Lord

Response to Forgiveness
Halle, halle, hallelujah

Anthem
Arr. Ken Berg, When morning gilds the skies

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: JS Bach, Little Prelude in F
Nick Murphy, organ
Offertory:  Johann Walther, If thou but trust in God to guide you
Postlude: Dietrich Buxtehude, A Mighty Fortress

Music for 102112

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Holy, holy, holy (STF 200, in D)
Open our eyes, Lord (STF 2086)
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord

Opening Song
Lord, I lift your name on high

Prayer of Confession Response
Tuya es la Gloria ((STF 2011)

Offertory
Lead me to the cross

Closing Song
God of the sparrow

            
11AM
Hymns
464, Joyful, joyful, we adore thee (HYMN TO JOY)
272, God of the sparrow (ROEDER)

Introit
Cherub Choir
Cathy McMillan, director; Jayne Vaughan, accompanist

Response to Forgiveness
2011, We sing of your glory (TUYA ES LA GLORIA)

Children’s Time
JS Bach, Minuet in G
Hannah Kershner, piano

Anthem
Lynn Shaw Bailey and Betsy Slagle Mayo, Use your gifts

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Prayers
Musical Offering: Amazing Grace
Drew Banzhoff, piano

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Arr. Susan Nelson Sylvester, Tuya es la Gloria
Offertory: Lee G. Barrow, Festive Bell Flourish
Postlude:

Music for 100712

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Jikelele

Opening Song
This is the day

Prayer of Confession Response
Your mercy flows

Peace
The Peace of the earth

Offertory
Benedictus

Closing Song
One bread, one body

11AM
Hymns
465, Here, O Lord, your servants gather (TOKYO)
Insert,    One bread one body (ONE BREAD)

Response to Forgiveness
Glory be to God the Father (WESTMINSTER ABBEY)

Peace
The peace of the earth

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (LASST UNS ERFREUEN)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Traditional South African, Jikelele
Offertory: Tom Fettke, The Majesty and glory of your name
Postlude: TBA Organ

Music for 093012

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Bless the Lord, my soul
Be still for the presence of the Lord

Opening Song
Blessed be your name

Prayer of Confession Response
Dayenu

Offertory
Draw me nearer

Prayers
O Lord, hear my prayer

Closing Song
What a friend we have in Jesus

11AM
Hymns
420, God of grace and God of glory (CWM RHONDDA)
2202, Come away with me (RECREATION)
403, What a friend we have in Jesus (CONVERSE)

Response to Forgiveness
579, Glory be to the Father (GREATOREX)

Anthem
Arr. Michael Burkhart, The Lord is Beautiful
Nimemwona bwana anapendeza  (We have seen the Lord, and he is beautiful.)
Fairest Lord Jesus, Ruler of all nature, O thou of God to earth come down,
Thee will I cherish, thee will I honor, thou may soul’s glory, joy and crown.
Beautiful Savior, King of creation, Son of God and Son of Man:
truly I’d love thee, truly I’d serve thee, Light of my soul, my joy, my crown.

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Prayers
2200, O Lord, hear my prayer (HEAR MY PRAYER)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:    JS Bach, Prelude in C
Virginia Redhead Bethune, harp
Offertory: Arr. Frank Voltz, Sweet Hour of Prayer
Virginia Redhead Bethune, harp
Postlude:  John Stanley, Voluntary in A Minor

This week we are welcoming harpist Virginia Redhead Bethune who will be providing special music at 11AM. View her website here.

Music for 092312

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Jesus loves me, this I know
As the deer

Opening Song
Everlasting God

Prayer of Confession Response
First song of Isaiah

Offertory
Hallleujah, saved by your mercy

Prayers
Dao-Kim Intercessions

Closing Song
Jesu, Jesu, fill us with your love
            
 
11AM
Hymns
457, I greet thee who my sure redeemer art (TOULON)
367, Jesu, Jesu, full us with your love (CHEREPONI)
2197, Lord of all hopefulness (SLANE)

Response to Forgiveness
2030, First Song of Isaiah (FIRST SONG)

Anthem
Arr. Phillip Deitterich, Followers of the lamb
O brethren ain't you happy, ye followers of the Lamb?
Sing on, dance on, followers of Emmanuel, sing on, dance on, ye followers of the Lamb.
O sisters, ain't you happy, ye followers of the lamb?
O, I'm glad I am a Christian, ye followers of the Lamb,
O, I me to be obedient, ye followers of the Lamb.

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Prayers
Dao-Kim Intercessions

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:    Maria-Theresia von Paradis, Sicilienne
Alice Keith Knowles, violin
Offertory:  JA Bach, Andante, from Concerto in A Minor
Alice Keith Knowles, violin
Postlude:  JS Bach, Allegro, Concerto in A Minor

Music for 091612

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Praise to the living God
Jubilate, everybody

Opening Song
God of wonders

Prayer of Confession Response
You are my King

Peace
Shalom chaverim

Offertory
Our God

Doxology
God, we honor your

Closing Song
You are my all in all
            
11AM
Hymns
488, The God of Abraham praise (LEONI)
344, Christ of the upward way (SURSUM CORDA)
421, The church of Christ in every age (WAREHAM)

Response to Forgiveness
579, Glory be to the Father (GREATOREX)

Anthem
Beethoven, The heavens are telling
…the Lord’s endless glory; through all the earth God’s praise is found. The seas re-echo the marvelous story, let all repeat that glorious sound. The starry hosts God orders and numbers; and fills the morning’s golden light. God wakes the sun from its night-curtained slumber; let all adore the King of kings. The heavens are God’s and the earth knows God’s favor, and in all things God’s power is seen, the Lord of hosts, who forever and ever our God and Maker still shall be. God is our Maker whose love does not falter; the God of wisdom, ever just. Let earth and all things our God praise forever, creation now exalt our God.

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:    JS Bach, Siciliano, from Concerto in D Minor
Offertory:  Improvisation on How Great Thou Art and Amazing Grace
David Bell, piano
Postlude:  Benedetto Marcello, Psalm XIX

Music for 090912

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Come into God’s presence singing, “alleluia”
Invocation (Murai)
Come, now is the time to worship

Opening Song
This is our God

Prayer of Confession Response
Glory to God whose goodness

Scripture/Proclamation
Open your ears, O faithful people

Offertory
Grateful

Doxology
God, we honor you

Closing Song
Jude Doxology

11AM
Hymns
267, All things bright and beautiful (ROYAL OAK)
We cannot measure how you heal (CANDLER)
422, God, whose giving knows no ending (BEACH SPRING)

Response to Forgiveness
Glory to God whose goodness

Scripture
Open your ears, O faithful people

Anthem
Craig Curry, I heard the voice of Jesus say
…come unto me and rest.
Lay down, thou weary one, lay down thy head upon my breast.
I came to Jesus as I was, weary and worn and sad;
I found in him a resting place, and he has made me glad.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, “Behold, I freely give
The living water; thirsty one, stoop down, and drink, and live.”
I came to Jesus, and I drank of that life giving stream;
My thirst was quenched, my soul revived, and now I live in him.

I heard the voice of Jesus say, I am this dark world’s Light;
Look unto me, thy morn shall rise, and all thy day be bright.
I looked to Jesus, and I found in him my Star, my Sun;
And in that light of life I’ll walk, till traveling days are done.

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:   JS Bach, Siciliano, from Sonata in E-Flat, Libby Barker, flute
Offertory: Claude Boyvin, Duo, Santus
Postlude:  JS Bach, Prelude in F Minor

Music for 090212

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Turn your eyes upon Jesus
All hail the power of Jesus’ name

Opening Song
Your grace is enough

Prayer of Confession Response
Your mercy flows

Offertory
Salvation belongs to our God

Doxology
God, we honor your

Prayers
Amazing grace (Alleluia)

Closing Song
Refiner’s fire (Purify my heart)
            
11AM
Hymns
476, O worship the King (LYONS)
2196, We walk by faith (MARTYRDOM)
298, There’s a wideness (IN BABILONE)

Response to Forgiveness
Purcell, Glory be to God the Father (WESTMINSTER ABBEY)

Anthem
Wesley, Lead me, Lord

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:   Louise Vierne, Invocation
Offertory: Nicholas De Grigny, Cromhorne en taille, a 2 parties
Postlude:  Pierre Du Mage, Grand Jeu, Suite du Premier Ton

Non-dead composers

Philip Copeland (director of choral activities at Samford University) writes about the travails of composing in the midst of an already busy musical life. Much of his article resonated with me.  I was struck most with his remarks about inviting performers to contact living composers when they perform one of their works:

And so a simple request from all of us not-yet-dead composers. Please tell us if you perform any of our music, preferably well before a concert so that we might arrange to attend if we are in your area. Simply “Google” the composer’s name; most of us are not at all hard to find. We want to be found! A one-line email would suffice:

“In our spring concert on May 18, 2013, 7:30 p.m., the Happy Valley Choir of Happy Valley, ND, will be performing your work, ‘A Simple Request,’ in the Happy Valley Civic Auditorium.”

But, but, but—you say that as an extremely busy choir director you have no time to do this? Why not ask a dependable choir member, or a helpful parent/guardian of a child choir member, or even a board member who really needs a job to serve as your group’s official “Composer Notifier”?

Please, just let us know. It will make all the difference. Truly it will.

I know I would get a kick out of hearing form folks who perform my music.  I'll see if I can become more faithful in making contact when our music groups do the same. 

Royal Wedding music

Robert Quinney (b. 1976), sub-organist at Westminster Abbey, provided organ music for the royal wedding in 2011.  Here he is part of a short interview with a commentator who obviously knows some about music-making.  The video is a nice introduction to the organ in general, and a tantalizing look at the Abbey instrument in particular.

Music for 071512

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Jubilate everybody
King of kings and Lord of lords

Opening Song
The King of glory comes

Prayer of Confession Response
Dayenu

Peace
Shalom chaverim

Offertory
David Hekking, guitar

Closing Song
We are marching
           
11AM
Hymns
465, Here O Lord, your servants gather (TOKYO)
280, Amazing grace how sweet the sound (NEW BRITAIN)
2235, We are marching (SIYAHAMBA)

Prayer of Confession Response
Glory to God whose goodness

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  William Boyce, Voluntary and Fugue in A
Offertory:   Arr. Stearns, Amazing Grace
Postlude:  WF Bach, Fugue in A Minor

Music for 062412

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Father, I adore you
Heart of worship

Opening Song
Cry of my heart

Prayer of Confession Response
Celtic Alleluia

Scripture/Proclamation
Speak, O Lord


Doxology
Give thanks

Prayer
Lord’s Prayer (Strathdee)

Closing Song
God of the sparrow, God of the whale 
            
11AM

Hymns
260, A mighty fortress is our God (EIN FESTE BURG)
373, Lonely the boat (BAI)
562, Eternal Father, strong to save (MELITA)

Prayer of Praise Response
2043, Celtic Alleluia (CELTIC ALLELUIA)

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Arr. Philip Jones, Lonely the boat
Offertory:   John Stanley, Voluntary in G Minor
Postlude:  Johann Walther, Ein Feste Burg

Review: Jonathan Rundman, self-titled album

I've been listening to Jonathan Rundman's 2011 self-titled release with a goofy grin on my face.  The music is very upbeat and you're going along just fine until you realize he's singing about a handbell ringer, or Ash Wednesday or a committee meeting.  Thus the grin.  Several of the songs on this album are from earlier releases, but there's plenty of new material.    I found myself comparing Rundman to NC balladeer Mike Cross, only with rock instead of bluegrass or folk as his musical style.  Like Mike Cross, Rundman casts a poet's eye on the mundane and earnestly reflects on the basics of life.  And more specifically in the case of several songs here, the life of church-y folks.  Other surprises include the homage to librarians and Rundman's request for a "bright funeral."  This is a great album to keep in the car.  The music is fun and the messages contain a delightful mix of silly and sublime with a subtle zing here and there. + + + +

Music for 061712

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
How great is our God

Opening Song
Holy is the Lord

Prayer of Confession Response
We sing of your glory (STF 2011, in D)

Communion
Distribution: God has chosen me

Closing Song
Your grace is enough 
            
11AM
Hymns
205, All hail to God’s anointed (ELLACOMBE)
Hymn of promise (PROMISE)

Prayer of Confession Response
Patterson, Alleluia, in Jesus Christ we are forgiven

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Music during Communion
Responses: Hal Hopson
Distribution: God has chosen me

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Carol Staszewski, Voluntary on Ellacombe
Offertory:   George Thalben-Ball, Solemn Melody
Postlude:  Joseph Jongen, Choral

Music for 061012

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Jubilate, everybody

Opening Song
We fall down (in D)
Holy, holy, holy (NICEA)

Prayer of Confession Response
Surely it is God who saves me (STF 2030, in C)

Offertory
Marvelous light (in A)

Doxology
Give thanks (refrain, STF 2036)

Closing Song
Refiner’s fire (Purify my heart), (in E)
            
11AM
Hymns
139, Come, thou almighty King (ITALIAN HYMN)
2225, Who is my mother, who is my brother (KINDRED)
276, Great is thy faithfulness (FAITHFULNESS)

Prayer of Praise Response
2030, Surely it is God who saves me (FIRST SONG)

Doxology
592, Praise God, from whom all blessings flow (OLD HUNDREDTH)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Pachelbel, All glory be to God on high
Offertory:   Titelouze, Come, Holy Spirit
Postlude:  JS Bach, Lamb of God most holy

Review: Richard Colligan, Shout for joy

Richard Bruxvoort Colligan’s second project for Augsburg-Fortress Press, Shout for Joy, is a second collection of original settings of the Psalms.  The titles of the tracks do not identify the specific psalm texts; I have the album via the Amazon.com Cloud player, so I am lacking liner notes, which may give some helpful details in that regard.  Given the parameters of the project, a psalm collection, this may not be the best album to judge an artist’s talents with original material.  I found the musical style a little too poppy for repeated listening.  That being said, young children will likely truly enjoy this music.  Indeed, children's voices are incorporated in several of the songs.  Colligan’s lyrics are quite clear, and will allow listeners to readily hear the Psalm texts.  Colligan’s voice, however, doesn’t seem to have the heft to pull off meatier music.  I found the upbeat nature of “Return and Restore us” slightly incongruous in relation to the text of the song.  A couple of songs could find their way into corporate as congregational songs or responses.  I hope lead sheets will be available for a couple of these.  + + +

Review: Ruthie Foster, Let it burn

I am listening to this entire album once again this morning, and finding that I am nowhere near tired of listening to Ruthie Foster! Born in Texas and infused with a rich palette of musical influences, Foster's sultry, soulful, sensuous singing is a delight even on repeated listening.  This album was recorded in NOLA and includes some heavy-hitting back-ups on a couple of the tracks: George Porter, Jr., the Blind Boys of Alabama and William Bell.  This album features more covers and fewer original songs than her other releases, but all that has done is whet my appetite.  (My kids enjoy hearing Adele sing "Set Fire to the Rain" on pop radio, but Foster's take is incredible.)  The orchestrations could easily have overtaken the voice, so kudos to the producers who let the voice predominate.  + + + +

Pentecost 2012

We re-installed our cut-paper dove, but added with 

it with two red cut-paper flames.  The install went fine and the final effect was good.  I'd like to do more of the flames for next year, maybe from each light fixture and vary the heights.

Music for 052712 Pentecost

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Wa, wa, wa emimimo

Opening Song
Spirit, Spirit of gentleness (PH 319)

Prayer of Praise Response
Spirit of the living God

Offertory
As the wind song

Communion
Responses by Leon Roberts
Distribution: Our God is here

Closing Song
Jesus Messiah
            
11AM
Hymns
129, Come, O Spirit, dwell among us (EBENEZER)
131, Wind who makes all winds that blow (ABERYSTWYTH)

Prayer of Praise Response
322, Spirit of the living God (LIVING GOD)

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (with Alleluias)
LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Music during Communion
Responses by Leon Roberts
Distribution:
314, Like the murmur of the dove’s song
316, Breathe on me, breath of God

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Titelouze, Trio on Veni Creator Spiritus
Offertory:   David Ashley White, Come down, O love divine
Chancel Choir
Postlude:  Titelouze, Fugue on Veni Creator Spiritus

Music for 052012

FirstLight

Gathering Song(s)
Made me glad
Glorify thy name

Opening Song
All hail the power of Jesus’ name

Prayer of Praise Response

Glory to God whose goodness shines

Offertory
Jude Doxology

Closing Song
Fairest

11AM

Hymns
143, All hail the power of Jesus’ name (DIADEM)
379, My hope is built (SOLID ROCK)
441, I love thy kingdom, Lord (ST. THOMAS)

Prayer of Praise Response

2026, Halle, halle, halleuja (CARRIBEAN)

Anthem

Andre Thomas, When the trumpet sounds
Where shall I be when the trumpet sounds
When it sounds so loud till it wake up the dead.
Tell me, where shall I be when the trumpet sounds

Doxology

Praise God from whom all blessings flow (with Alleluias)
LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Ralph Vaughan Williams, O Clap your hands
Psalm 47: God has gone up with a shout, the Lord
                 With the sound of the trumpet.
Offertory: Healy Willan, Voluntary on MILES LANE
Postlude: Edward Elgar, Military March Number 1, in D

Not one, not two, but three

We'll be singing the hymn "All hail the power of Jesus' name" this week at both services.  We have a nice arrangement using CORONATION that our little band does nicely at FirstLight; we'll sing the standard hymnal arrangement of CORONATION at 11AM. 

I've done it before, but for kicks last night at choir rehearsal I had the singers waltz through DIAMDEM.  Though we have tried it before, most singers claimed to have never heard it before.  Of course, I told them that one of the best ways to get a roomful of Methodists excited is to sing this tune.  We also tried singing "Amazing grace, how sweet the sound" to DIADEM ("...was BLIND BUT..."), and explored singing "Amazing Grace" to the tune for the theme song for the old TV show "Gilligan's Island" (it really works). 

But more seriously, I mentioned that in the 1960's-era edition of the Methodist hymnal, there was a third tune associated with the text "All hail the power..."  MILES LANE didn't make it into the 1990's era book, but remains firmly implanted in my mind.  On festive days we'd sing this hymn text and wend our way, with the help of a gifted organist, through all three tunes!  The version of DIADEM in the Presbyterian Hymnal unfortunately is in B-flat, leading to a very high and scream-y F in the melody, making it not terribly feasible for congregational use. 

This Sunday I'll play a setting of MILES LANE by Healy Willian, we'll sing CORONATION, and I'll have some fond memories of of DIADEM while we sing and worship.

New CD

Our own Donna Marie Todd has been busy.  She is putting the finishing touches on a book, Butterfly Girl.  But musically she is preparing to release a music CD, a collection of favorite hymns, entitled Faith of our Fathers.  You can listen to a couple of samples here.  The CD includes the talents of Will Straughan.  Keep an eye out for it and get a copy of it when it's released!

Music for 051312

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
This is my commandment
Better is one day

Opening Song
Love the Lord

Prayer of Praise Response
We fall down

Offertory
Everlasting God

Closing Song
Blest be the tie that binds
            
11AM
Hymns
150, Come, Christians, join to sing (SPANISH HYMN)
335, Though I may speak (O WALY WALY)
438, Blest be the tie that binds (DENNIS)

Prayer of Praise Response
Glory to God whose goodness shines (VASILE)

Anthem
Arr. Dennis Allen, Come thou fount of every blessing

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (with Alleluias)
LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Arr. Wayne Kerr, The Shepherd’s Psalm
Offertory:  Arr. Barker, Voluntary on DENNIS
Postlude:  TBA Organ

Thanks

Friends of ours worshiped with us this morning.  It was kind of neat seeing folks we are accustomed to seeing at the ball field join us in worship.  I had a chance to speak with them after the service, but moved on and left them chatting with Libby and proceeded toward the narthex and my office.  I was stopped a couple of times along the way by folks (Hugh Farrior waxing poetic on the ministering power of music among them) who wanted to express appreciation for the music in the service.  At one point those guests caught up with me.  the gentleman said to me as he passed something to the effect of, "Gee, I don't hear that sort of thing at my work!"

So, a couple of things:
1. Thank you for being so effusive and demonstrative with your praise and appreciation for all of the music that takes place in worship.  I suppose it's easy to get a little accustomed to hearing your thanks.  I and all our musicians need to remember that we would quickly starve if the thanks were to cease. So, really, "thanks."
2.  Try to be as thankful for folks and their efforts wherever you happen to be.  I don't actually know what this gentleman does.  How much more might any of us thrive when given a little encouragement and praise? Have a good word for your bagger, your waiter, your co-worker, your banker, your janitor, your classmate.  You might make their day.

The is the play list for the Prophets of Praise concert tonight at West Asheville Presbyterian Church PC(USA):

Set 1

Everlasting God

Your grace is enough

We fall down/Holy, holy, holy (NICEA)

Glorious day

Welcome to WAPC by Kent Smith

Set 2

Lead me to the cross

This is our God

Tuya es la Gloria

Holy, holy, holy

Alabare

Introduction of Ensemble by Mike Barker

Set 3

Jubilate, everybody

Shalom, chaverim

Dayenu

Uyaimose (Come all you people)/Praise to the Lord the Almighty

The wonderful cross (When I survey)

Presentation by Habitat for Humanity

Freewill offering

Solos

David Hekking

Andy Gwynn and David Hekking

Set 4

Holy is the Lord

Mighty to save

Alive forever amen

Not to us

You are holy, you are whole

Read the press announcement in ACT here.  The event is a fund-raising effort by WAPC for Asheville Habitat for Humanity.  Please join us at 7PM for great music for a great case. It's free, but bring a little cash for Habitat.

Music for 042912

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Jesus, name above all names
Come let us worship and bow down

Opening Song
Come, now is the time to worship

Prayer of Praise Response
Halle, halle, hallelujah (STF 2026)

Offertory
Mighty to save

Prayers
Amazing grace (Alleluia)

Closing Song
The Risen Christ (O breath of God)

11AM
Hymns
Easter people raise your voices (REGENT SQUARE)
172, My shepherd will supply my need (RESIGNATION)
538, Lord, dismiss us with thy blessing (SICILIAN MARINERS)

Prayer of Praise Response
2026, Halle, halle, hallelujah

Anthem
Allen Pote, The Lord is my shepherd

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (with Alleluias)
LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Douglas Wagner, Pastorale, from Psalm Impressions
I will both lie down and sleep in peace; for you alone, O Lord,
make me lie down in safety.  Psalm 4.8

Offertory:  Douglas Wagner, Elegy, from Psalm Impressions
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me;
your rod and your staff— they comfort me. Psalm 23.4

Postlude:  Douglas Wagner, Toccata, from Psalm Impressions
Praise him with tambourine and dance; praise him with strings and pipe!
Psalm 150.4

Hymnal update

The day after Easter the PCOCS (Presbyterian Committee on Congregation Song, "peacocks") released the contents for the new hymnal.  You can view them here.  See which of your favorites are present, and get a glimpse of the new material to be included.  In other news, the colors available for the cover of the new hymnal will be RED and PURPLE.  BMPCNC will be publicizing an effort to secure advance copies of the new hymnal (with a significant price incentive) this week.

Music for 042212

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Montreat College Choir
Timothy Wilds, director

Opening Song
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord

Prayer of Praise Response
Halle, halle, hallelujah (STF 2026)

Offertory
Montreat College Choir
Timothy Wilds, director

Closing Song
Go forth in his name

            
11AM
Hymns
108, Christ is alive (TRURO)
377, Lord, you have come to the lakeshore (PESCADOR DE HOMBRES)
306, Fairest Lord Jesus (CRUSADER’S HYMN)

Prayer of Praise Response
2026, Halle, halle, hallelujah

Anthem
Tanzanian Worship Song, Christ has arisen, alleluia (Mfurahini, haleluya)

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (with Alleluias)
LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude:  Hermann Schroeder, Fairest Lord Jesus (Schoenster Herr Jesu)
Offertory:  Arr. Mark Sedio, Lord, you have come to the lakeshore
Postlude:  Lefebure-Wely, Sortie on B-Flat

Music for 041512

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Alleluia, alleluia (Sinclair)
Holy is the Lord

Opening Song
Forever

Prayer Response
Halle, halle, halleluja (STF 2026)

Scripture/Proclamation
More precious than silver (STF 2065)

Doxology
Alleluia, alleluia, give thanks to the risen Lord (in E)

Closing Song
Jesus Messiah

11AM
Hymns
104, Christ is risen! Shout hosanna! (HYMN TO JOY)
399, We walk by faith (DUNLAP’S CREEK)
371, Lift high the cross (CRUCIFER)

Response of Praise
2026, Halle, halle, hallelujah (HALLE, HALLE)

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (LASST UNS ERFREUEN)

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: JS Bach, Christ is arisen
Offertory: JS Bach, Christ is arisen
Postlude: JS Bach, Christ is arisen
The chorale "Christ ist erstanden" is itself based on a plainsong sequence. The three stanzas of the hymn each have a different melody, but based on a single hymn text. Thus Bach has created three pieces for each of the three stanzas, each building in intensity.

Music for Easter 2012

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
He is exalted
Lord, I lift your name on high

Opening Song
That’s why we praise him

Prayer Resposne
Halle, halle, halleluja

Scripture/Proclamation
Glorious day

Offertory
Alive forever amen

Communion
Responses: Leon Roberts
During the distribution: You are holy, you are whole

Closing Song
Christ the Lord is risen today (EASTER HYMN)


11 AM
Hymns
Christ the Lord is risen today (EASTER HYMN)
Thine is the glory (JUDAS MACCABEUS)

Prayer Response
Halle, halle, hallelujah

Doxology
Praise God from whom all blessings flow (with Alleluias)
(LASST UNS ERFREUEN)

Communion
Responses: Eslinger, in C
During the distribution: Sing the joy of Easter Day and
You are holy, you are whole

Benediction
GF Handel, Hallelujah, from Messiah

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Sigfried Karg-Elert, Praise the Lord
CrossRoads Brass Ensemble, Michael Barker, organ
Offertory: Arr. Lynne Trapp, The Day of resurrection
Chancel Choir, CrossRoads Brass Ensemble
Postlude: Guilmant, Voluntary on Thine is the glory

CrossRoads Brass Ensemble:
Julie Howard and Michelle Haddad, trumpets;
Herb van der Ven and Chuck
Pofalh, trombones; Will Talley, tuba

Stations of the cross

I read in Reformed Worship journal of a church that put together a Protestant Stations of the Cross (based on the Catholic devotional practice) for their worshiping community. I knew I wanted to do something similar here in Black Mountain, given the abundance of talented and dedicated artistic folks in our congregation. The plan morphed over a period of several weeks, but finally culminated in a series of five stations in our fellowship hall for Palm Sunday worship at FirstLight. We have kept the stations in place during Holy Week; the plan is to start dis-assembling them tomorrow. Folks at the early service on Sunday seemed to appreciate the experience (it took the place of a sermon on this day). And there has been a trickle of folks all week to stop in and see them also.

The first station was the upper room, site of the last supper and where Jesus washed the disciples' feet. David Kaylor used his wood carvings to create a tableau.



The second station was Jesus at prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. Fred Barkley used elements from the forest around his home to create a miniature garden that transitioned from a place of prayer, to a valley of shadows and ultimately the mount of Calvary.

The thirds station was Jesus' arrest in the garden and his trial. Gene Schimpf made a multi-media installation that included a flaming torch and a recording of a rooster crowing (emblematic of Peter's denial).


The fourth station was Jesus on the cross. Martha Jane Peterson created a new fabric banner that symbolized the torn shroud in the temple as well as the crown of thorns with which Jesus was mocked.


The last station was Jesus in the tomb. For this Andy Gwynn created a wood and wire frame for paper-mache which our children completed; all the remained was a little bit of staging to complete this tableau.



We also created a very impressive printed guide which provided scripture readings, pastoral reflections, prayers, notes about the installations and an appropriate hymn text for each station. As with any venture there is room for improvement, but we were all very pleased with this experience as the main content of a worship service for Palm Sunday and as a devotional tool during Holy Week.

You can see and read the complete descriptive piece we prepared for the stations experience here as a pdf file.

Last of the Lenten banners

These are the last two in our series of seven banners for Lent. These images were keyed to the sermons during this season, a series called "We were there." The last two are the centurion at the cross, and the women at the tomb on Easter Day. Thanks to the entire team who created these.

Farther afield

The hymn commissioned by BMPCNC is spreading. We asked Carolyn Winfrey Gillette to write a text for us dealing with the slave who was injured in the Garden of Gethsemane, and how Jesus responded to that act of violence. We sang the hymn as part of our Lenten sermon series back on March 4. Word of the hymn has gotten around Sojourners makes mention of it in this recent post. The formatting is a little messy, but the church gets a shout-out.

Stone

It started with an idea to create a "stations of the cross" experience for our FirstLight worshipers. We wanted an experiential worship service for Palm Sunday this year derived from the rich Roman Catholic "stations" devotion. We pared ours down to five stations and asked our artists to each take a station. The final station, "Jesus is laid in the tomb," I have managed sort of in-house. Andy G took my idea for the stone and created the framework. After we loaded it into my pickup for portage to the church, Andy said it looked like some sort of redneck airboat!


Over the course of two weeks, the kids in our Logos program applied the paper-mache.



Today children from our weekday school painted on the base color.


Next up: some faux-stone paint and faux-moss and then staging in the fellowship hall. It's been a neat process that involved lots of exuberant participants, and just a little mess! Four other artists are working on different stations. They will be installing them later in the week. Worship at FirstLight on Palm Sunday will allow folks to explore these stations. The stations will remain in place throughout Holy Week for the whole congregation to experience them.

Offertory switch

As I am wont to do on occasion, I played a piece for the offertory last Sunday different from what was printed in our worship bulletin. It being the week during which we organists celebrated the 327th birthday of JS Bach, I knew I wanted to play a chorale prelude but changed which one at the last minute. I went with "Christus, der uns selig macht, from the Orgelbuchlein collection. Here is the text and English translation of the first stanza of this hymn:

Christus, der uns selig macht,
kein Boes hat begangen,
ward fuer uns zur Mitternacht
als ein Dieb gefangen,
gefuerht vor gottlose Leut
und faelschlich verklaget,
verlacht, verhoehnt, und verspeit,
wie denn die Schrift saget.

Christ, who makes us blessed,
and who had done no evil,
for us was taken at midnight,
like a thief,
led before godless people,
and falsely accused,
jeered, mocked and spat upon,
as the Scripture says.

The coolest part of this particular setting of the chorale is a point near then end when the soprano voices contains a G and the bass an F-sharp; the alto a C-natural and the tenor a C-sharp! The chorale prelude is treated as a canon (two voices contain the melody but follow each other in this case by two beats), and is full of dissonance. But that moment is special to me.

Music for 032512

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Come and fill our hearts (STF 2157)
Change my heart O God (STF 2152)

Opening Song
I give you my heart

Confession
Leon Roberts, Lord have mercy

Scripture/Proclamation
Speak, O Lord

Offertory
Ancient words

Doxology
Give thanks (STF 2036)

Closing Song
Bitter was the night


11 AM
Hymns
469, Morning has broken (BUNESSAN)
Bitter was the night (BITTER)
302, I danced in the morning (SIMPLE GIFTS)

Confession
Leon Roberts, Lord have mercy

Anthem
Rosephanye Powell, The Word was God
In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was
God. The same was in the beginning with God. By him all things were made,
that have been made; nothing was made he has not made.

Doxology
All things come of thee, O Lord

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Arr. Paul Manz, Voluntary on Bunessan
Offertory: JS Bach, The Son of God goes forth
Postlude: JS Bach, Prelude in A Minor

I became familiar with the 11AM choir anthem several years ago but never performed it; the piece was suggested to me a couple of years ago here in Black Mountain by a former chorister. We weren't ready to attempt it then, but have grown in our choral abilities and finesse since then. The composer is an African-American woman of growing renown. Her name is pronounced like the name "Stephanie" without the "t" and with the addition of "ro" to the beginning. Sidney Carter wrote two of the hymns we will sing at 11AM this week. I have not ever before included two songs by the same person in a single service. But I wanted to pair the more obscure song, "Bitter was the night," with a hymn for which Carter is rightly famous, "I danced in the morning." Carter, an English poet, songwriter and folk musician was born in 1915 and died in 2004.

Banners for Lent

Here are the most recent banners for our Lenten preaching series, "We were there." These are Peter (top), the high priest Caiaphas (above), and Judas (below). Folks have been responding to these favorably.

Music for 031812

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
This is our God

Opening Song
Better is one day

Confession
Leon Roberts, Lord have mercy

Offertory
M Barker, keyboard

Doxology
Give thanks (STF 2036)

Closing Song
Journey to Gethsemane

11 AM
Hymns
2236, Gather us in (GATHER)
Journey to Gethsemane (REDHEAD)
361, How firm a foundation (FOUNDATION)

Introit
Natalie Sleeth, Everywhere I go
Carol Choir

Confession
Leon Roberts, Lord have mercy

Children's Time
Arr. Barker, Seek ye first
Aerie Ringers, Emily Beaver, flute

Anthem
Michael Bedford, Jubilate Deo
Aerie Singers
Jubilate deo, omnis terra.
O be joyful in the Lord God, all you children of the world.
Love and serve the Lord your God with gladness everywhere!
Come to God, come now into God’s presence, with songs of exultation!

Doxology
All things come of thee, O Lord

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Arr. Barker, Jesus loves me
Aerie Ringers, Emily Beaver, flute
Offertory: Nancy Haskell, Nocturne in C Minor
Adult Handbells

Organ lecture-demonstration

Briggs told me last week that his class is doing a science unit on sound and musical instruments (he made a guitar out of a shoe-box and rubber bands with absolutely no help from anyone else at home). I offered his teacher the opportunity to take a short field trip and come visit the church's pipe organ. She took me up on it and with my permission invited all the second-grade teachers to visit. A total of 4 are making arrangements.

Briggs' class came this morning. He was very excited and proud, but was also a good host and let others ask all the questions about the organ and answer my questions to the class (to which he knew all the answers) and didn't gloat too much about having been allowed in the casework before.

I gave a short introduction on how sound is produced by wind, how an organ pipe is engineered to make sound, and the basics of how the organ is put together (blower, console, casework). I played a few snippets of music to demonstrate various sounds (diapasons, flutes, strings, reeds, ensemble). I let groups of five blow on a set of pentatonic pipes. They concluded by playing "Old MacDonald." And I answered lots of questions!

Best part of it all? I heard one student tell a classmate as they were heading out and back to school, "I want to come to this church sometime!"

Worship music 030412

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Be still, for the presence of the Lord
How great is our God

Opening Song
In Christ alone

Confession
Leon Roberts, Lord have mercy

Offertory
Above all

Doxology
Give thanks

Closing Song
Jesus went out to a garden (BEACH SPRING)

11 AM
Hymns
276, Great is thy faithfulness (FAITHFULNESS)
Jesus went out to a garden (BEACH SPRING)
new hymn written by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette on commission from BMPCNC
76, My song is love unknown (LOVE UNKNOWN)

Confession
Leon Roberts, Lord have mercy

Anthem
Bach-Gounod, Prelude in C
Alice Keith Knowles, violin

Doxology
All things come of thee, O Lord

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Buxtehude, Vater unser in himmelreich
Offertory: Arr. Charles Callahan, Voluntary on LOVE UNKNOWN
Postlude: Buxtehude, Toccata in F-Sharp Minor

Lenten hymns

Lest anyone think we're utilizing the visual arts to the detriment of music this season, rest assured we are not. To relate to each of the sermons during Lent, we have sought out hymns relevant to the person from the Bible serving as the focus for each particular week. This has been a real challenge and quite eye-opening, forcing me to plow through hymn resources I don't use very often. But I think it will prove to be quite rewarding for us all. Here's the working list:

February 26
Anointing Woman (Mark 14.3-9)
A most gracious display by John Ylvisaker (song collection Borning Cry, volume 1)

March 4
Slave with ear cut off in garden (Mark 14.32-50)
Jesus went out to a garden by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette (BEACH SPRING)

Mark 11
Peter (Mark 14.28-38, 66-72)
Youth Sunday
When Peter boasted soon he fell (ABIDING GRACE)

March 18
High Priest-Caiaphas (Mark 14.53-65)
Go to dark Gethsemane (REDHEAD)

March 25
Judas (Matthew 26.14-16, 47-50)
Bitter was the night by Sydney Carter (BITTER WAS THE NIGHT)

April 1
Palm Sunday
Lessons and Passion Hymns

April 5
Maundy Thursday
Centurion (Mark 15.33-39)

April 8
Easter Day
Women at the tomb (Mark 16.1-8)
Sing the joy of Easter Day (ROYAL OAK)

We used the hymn by John Ylvisaker last year on Palm Sunday, so that was pretty easy to arrive upon. I never found any hymn dealing specifically with the slave in the story of the encounter in the garden. Therefore, we asked Carolyn Winfrey Gillette to write a new hymn for us. She did so in fine fashion, crafting a text that deals with the immediate story and character, but also addresses larger issues of violence and peace. We are looking forward to singing it. I still have not found the hymn I want to use to deal with the "Centurion." I am not finished looking, but I have made some notes of my own as a possible hymn text, in case nothing else pans out. "When Peter Boasted" was written by John Newton (of "Amazing grace" fame) and first appeared in 1779. I found the hymn by Sydney Carter in Voices United, the hymnal of the United Church of Canada. We'll probably also sing Carter's "Lord of the dance" that same day. On Palm Sunday we'll explore the Passion narrative through a series of readings and hymns, yet to be determined. I feel pretty pleased with the variety of hymns representing several eras and styles. I am certain the congregation will be able to appreciate the same as they encounter these songs in worship.

Lenten Banners

Our Lenten preaching theme is "We were there," a series of sermons dealing with persons who related to Jesus in his final days. When the theme was announced in January, I immediately imagined a set of banners, one for each person. I had in mind a set we made in Richmond for Eastertide some years ago, a sort of silhouette effect.

One church member drew the original artwork, other members did the painting (on fabric) and yet another finished each banner with a border and yet another prepared the banners for hanging (rods and cords). We're using the drawings as cover art for our worship guides on Sundays.

Here are the first two; we've colorized the background (from the original black/white) to reflect the fabric color of the finished banners. Above, the woman who anointed Jesus (Mark 14.3-9) and below, the slave who was injured in the garden (Luke 22.45-53). I'll post the others as we move through the season.

Taking off, putting on

As we near the beginning of Lent this week on Ash Wednesday, I am seeing more comment in various forums about what folks are giving up or sacrificing. That's all fine and good. But I'd like to offer an alternative.

Instead of giving up something, take something on. Covenant with yourself to read a particular book this season, something you've been "meaning for read" for a while, or a "deeper" book of theology or devotional practice. Covenant to take on an additional act of service this season, either a one-time undertaking or a recurring act of ministry throughout the season. A few years ago I covenanted with myself to listen to and study the JS Bach St. Matthew Passion during the season of Lent. I had a nice recording, a copy of the full score and a critical analysis of the work in book form. Spread over 40 days it made for quite an undertaking that was edifying musically and spiritually. If you read the Bible daily, consider adding the reading of a commentary to go along with your readings.

I've given up my share of things over the years, but more recently have gained much more by taking something on. I commend it to you.

Music for 021912

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
As the deer
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord

Opening Song
Holy is the Lord

Confession
You are my King (Amazing love)

Scripture/Proclamation
Open our eyes

Offertory
Salt and light

Doxology
Give thanks

Closing Song
Shine, Jesus, shine



11 AM
Hymns
308, O sing a song of Bethlehem (KINGSFOLD)
341, Blessed assurance (ASSURANCE
462, Christ, whose glory fills the skies (RATISBON)

Confession
Purcell, Glory be to God the Father (WESTMINSTER ABBEY)

Scripture
2086, Open our eyes (OPEN OUR EYES)

Anthem
Kauffmann, O sing to the Lord an original song
…for the Lord, our God has declared his victory. All the ends of the earth have
seen the victory of our God. Sing praises with the lute and the harp; with organ
and strings make the sounds of melody. Let the trumpet blare, raise a tune with the clarion. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, our God. Let the sea awaken and roar, and all that dwell therein; let the rush of the waters clap their hands and the hills sing for joy before the Ruler of all.

Doxology
LASST UNS ERFREUEN

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Arr. Kevin McChesney, Brethren, we have met to worship
Adult Handbells
Offertory: Leslie Adams, Offering of Love
Postlude: Arr. Gilbert Martin, In Christ there is no east or west

Music for 021212

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Tuya es la gloria
All hail the power of Jesus’ name

Opening Song
Blessed be your name

Confession
Glory to God

Scripture/Proclamation
Open your ears, O faithful people

Offertory
Mighty to save

Doxology
Give thanks

Closing Song
Did you feel the mountains tremble

11 AM
Hymns
478, Praise, my soul, the King of heaven (LAUDA ANIMA)
294, Wherever I may wander (NEW ENGLAND)
379, My hope is built on nothing less (SOLID ROCK)

Confession
2043, Celtic Alleluia (CELTIC ALLLEUIA)

Anthem
Manz, E’en so Lord Jesus quickly come
Peace be to you and grace from Him
Who freed us from our sin
Who loved us all, and shed his blood
That we might saved be.
Sing holy, holy to our Lord
The Lord almighty God
Who was and is, and is to come
Sing holy, holy Lord.
Rejoice in heaven,all ye that dwell therein
Rejoice on earth, ye saints below
For Christ is coming,
Is coming soon
For Christ is coming soon.
E'en so Lord Jesus quickly come
And night shall be no more
They need no light, no lamp, nor sun
For Christ will be their All!

Doxology
OLD HUNDREDTH

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, Arietta
Offertory: Gerre Hancock, Prelude in B-flat
Postlude: Fela Sowande, Joshua fit the battle of Jericho

During February I am exploring the organ music of African-American composers, but because this month also overlaps with our congregation's emphasis on global mission, I am going further afield than just composers from the US. Last week I drew upon the music of Florence B. Price and Adolphus Hailstork. This week I will play a piece by Coleridge-Taylor who was born in Great Britain, the child of an English woman and a Sierra Leonean man. He toured the US three times and from those experiences was driven to explore his African roots in his composing efforts. I am also playing a piece by Fela Sowande who likewise was not American. Born in Nigeria, he studied in Great Britain and lived there for many years. However, he eventually came to teach at Kent State University and ultimately died in the US. Finally I should note that Gerre Hancock was not African-American nor had any other racial ties to Africa. He recently died, so I felt it meet that I should play a piece of his I've had in my library for some time but never used in worship before.

Review: The Christian west and its singers, C. Page

I recently read a very favorable review of this book by Christopher Page, on the development of music notation and the advancement of organized singing in Christian churches to the Middle Ages. I wanted to read the book and then review it here for obvious reasons. Yet, as one can see on the publisher's site, the book is out of print. Which explains, I suppose why this is what I find for the book at Amazon.com. Yeah, that's a used copy for $711! Things were no better over at Barnes & Noble. New copies top out at about $3900!! Reckon I'll check it out from the library. It's kind of sad, though: the book is not quite 2 years from its publication date. And it's already out-of-print? What a rip!

+ + + (but dream on)

New hymn text

During Lent we will be exploring Jesus' relationship with several characters from the Bible. One of my goals has been to pair a hymn with each individual. One of the individuals to be considered is the slave whose ear was cut off in the garden of Gethsemane. Perhaps not surprisingly, there are no hymn texts on that particular Bible story of which I am aware. Therefore I commissioned Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, a Presbyterian pastor and hymn-writer of some renown to write a new text for us at Black Mountain Presbyterian Church.

The text is obviously protected by copyright, so while it may be possible to steal it from this post, please just do the right thing and don't. Contact Mike Barker for more information.

Gillette wrote the text with the hymn tune BEACH SPRING in mind. We hope, however, to create a new tune for the text and premiere the text and tune together. The first performance will be Sunday March 4. Gillette tells me that reference is made to this new text in Presbyterian Outlook as part of a promotion of the publication of a collection of new hymn texts she has written. Keep en eye out for that.

Jesus went out to a garden To a quiet place to pray.
In the night, a crowd came round him, Led by Judas on their way.
They seized Jesus to arrest him; Someone near then drew a sword.
Soon a slave was injured, suffering There beside our suffering Lord.

Jesus spoke to stop the violence: “Put your sword back in its place.”
Then he touched the slave and healed him In a moment filled with grace.
For as violence leads to violence Causing more distress and pain—
So compassion in abundance Is a witness to God’s reign.

God of love, we pause and wonder: Did that slave give quiet praise?
Yet the story marches onward With the pain that it portrays.
For the One who brought such healing Soon was broken, on a cross,
To our sinful world revealing Violence has an awful cost.

God, the gospels bear a witness: Your Son’s death was not the end.
By your grace, you raised up Jesus; Sin and violence did not win.
May we work to end all suffering; Lead us in Christ’s peaceful way.
May his peace become an offering That we share throughout each day

Music for worship 020512

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
I love you, Lord STF 2068)

Opening Song
Uyaimose (in F)
Praise to the Lord the Almighty (in F)

Confession
Jubilate, everybody

Scripture/Proclamation
Speak, O Lord

Offertory
Everlasting God

Doxology
Give thanks (STF 2236)

Closing Song
You shall go out with joy (STF 2279)

11 AM
Hymns
482, Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (LOBE DEN HERREN)
2281, May you run and not be weary (PRINCE OF PEACE)
411, Arise, your light is come (FESTAL SONG)

Confession
Patterson, Alleluia, in Jesus Christ we are forgiven

Scripture
Hasidic Tune, Open your ears, O faithful people

Anthem
Marty Haugen, Eye has not seen
A setting of First Corinthians 2.9, 10
Libby Barker, Lynn Harmon

Doxology
OLD HUNDREDTH

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Florence B. Price, Arietta
Offertory: Allen Pote, Festive Praise
Sing to the Lord a song of praise, a wonderful marvelous song.
Sing to the Lord with joy in your heart, a wonderful, marvelous song.
Alleuia, amen!
Chancel Choir
Postlude: Adolphus Hailstork, Fugue in F Minor

Review: Glory, by Michael W. Smith

I bought the MP3 based on a favorable review in a recent issue of Christianity Today.

I thought the music would take one direction based on the title of the album. But it went another, and checking through the track names (Heroes, Glory Battle, The Tribute) I was struck by a very militaristic sound to most of the tracks. Those that weren't as military-sounding sounded very much like, well, tributes to fallen soldiers (and at least one part that sounded alarmingly like variations on a tune reminiscent of "Yankee Doodle Dandy.)

It's fine film music, sort of like music looking for a movie to go with. I could hear it paired with a Mel Gibson film quite easily.

Smith, being a pianist, features the piano quite a bit in his writing. There is little motific development in the symphonic writing. Mostly nice melodies begun in one instrument and then tossed around to others, the orchestra serving to punctuate and create transitions between iterations of the theme.

Nice music, but not a whole lot of substance; good background music for studying or reading.

+ +

Music for 012912

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
Holy, holy, holy (STF 2007)
Cantad al senor (PH 472)

Opening Song
Alabare

Confession
Shalom chaverim

Prayers
Cambodian Lord’s Prayer

Offertory
Benton Brown, Hallelujah, your love is amazing

Closing Song
Shout to the Lord

11 AM
Hymns
487, When morning gilds the skies (LAUDES DOMINI)
326, Spirit of God, descend upon my heart (MORECAMBE)
425, Lord of light, your name outshining (EBENEZER)

Confession
579, Glory be to the Father (GREATOREX)

Anthem
John Rutter, Thy perfect love
Jesu, my love, my joy, my rest, Thy perfect love close in my breast
That I thee love and never rest; And Make me love thee of all things best,
And wounde my heart in thy love free, that I may reign in joy evermore with thee.
Anonymous 15th century text

Prayers
Cambodian Lord’s Prayer

Doxology
OLD HUNDREDTH

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Sonatina, Isabella Hile, piano
Offertory: Mark Sedio, Voluntary on Kuortane
Postlude: WA Mozart, Allegro from Fantasia in F Minor

Music for January 22, 2012

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
You are worthy of my praise

Opening Song
Come, now is the time to worship

Confession
Dayenu

Offertory
Here is our King

Doxology
Give thanks (STF 2236)

Closing Song
I’m gonna live so God can use me (PH 369)

11 AM
Hymns
281, Guide me, O thou great Jehovah (CWM RHONDDA
282, If thou but trust in God to guide thee (WER NUR DEN LIEBEN GOTT)
369, I’m gonna live so God can use me (I’M GONNA LIVE)

Confession
579, Glory be to the Father (GREATOREX)

Anthem
Handel, Hallelujah, Amen

Doxology
OLD HUNDREDTH

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: JS Bach, Wer nur den lieben Gott
Offertory: Max Reger, Wer nur den lieben Gott
Postlude: Improvisation: Wer nur den lieben Gott

Music for 011512

FirstLight
Gathering Song(s)
He knows my name
I give you my heart

Opening Song
Here I am to worship

Confession
Your mercy flows

Prayers
Amazing Grace (Alleluia)

Offertory
You alone

Doxology
Give thanks

Closing Song
I have decided to follow Jesus

11 AM
Hymns
306, Fairest, Lord Jesus (CRUSADERS’ HYMN)
305, Jesus, our divine companion (PLEADING SAVIOR)
2129, I have decided to follow Jesus (I HAVE DECIDED)

Confession
Purcell, Glory be to God the Father (WESTMINSTER ABBEY)

Anthem
Henry Purcell, Thou knowest, Lord, the secrets of our hearts
…shut not thy merciful ears unto our prayer;
but spare us, Lord most holy, O God most mighty,
O holy and most merciful Saviour,
thou most worthy Judge eternal,
suffer us not, at our last hour,
for any pains of death, to fall from thee.
Amen.

Doxology
OLD HUNDREDTH

Instrumental/Organ Music
Prelude: Gerre Hancock, Variations on Crusaders’ Hymn
Offertory: Henry Purcell, Rondeau
Postlude: Henry Purcell, Voluntary in C