The Gift of Music

I regularly pray the Daily Office using the website of the Mission of St. Clare (missionstclare.com). With one click I have the prayers, psalms, scripture readings and songs for each day. I love to pray Morning Prayer as the sun is rising over the trees. I feel connected to God and to others throughout the world who are praying the same prayers, reading the same psalms and scriptures, and singing along to the same songs. I pray for people who are sick or suffering, for those facing or recovering from surgery, for those who are struggling and in need, for those who have asked for prayers. I pray for the church, for the world, and for God’s creation. I feel deeply connected even though I am alone…

My favorite part of the service is the songs. They lift me up and inspire me. Just today, one verse of the song was: “then sing for joy, and use each day; give thanks for everything alway. Lift up your hearts; with one accord, praise God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” As I drove to the church, I was singing that verse. As I am writing these thoughts, I am singing that verse. 

Being reminded to live with joy, gratitude and praise is a wonderful way to make our way though the day. There is an amazing amount of great church music, from ancient hymns to contemporary praise songs, that can bring us closer to God and each other. Sing a verse and hold it in your heart!

On that note (how’s that?) I want to say a word of thanks to our Music Director Search Committee. This group has been hard at work developing the job description that will be publicized by next week. Many thanks to Anne-Marie Bouche and Mike Baldwin for co-chairing the committee.

If you know someone who might be interested, or have connections in the music world, have them check out the information and job description on our website. 

I also want to offer special thanks to Mike Baldwin for (once again) stepping up during the interim time. Mike has done a wonderful job playing, choosing music and scheduling soloists and accompanists. He helps us keep the gift of music going here at St. Michael’s!

Peace,

Bill+