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God’s Promises: This autumn, we’re learning alongside the youngest among us in Church School. We look at the early characters of the Hebrew scriptures and how God’s promises bring hope for the future, with guidelines on how to love God and love others in ways that bring life and hope to all.
My life flows on in endless song
Above Earth’s lamentation
I catch the sweet, though far-off hymn
that hails a new creation.
No storm can shake my inmost calm
while to that Rock I’m clinging.
Since Love is lord of heav’n and earth,
how can I keep from singing?
Through all the tumult and the strife,
I hear that music ringing.
It finds an echo in my soul.
How can I keep from singing?
first published and attributed to Pauline T., August 27, 1868, in The New York Observer.
This Sunday we thread our autumn theme in a slightly elevated way, to celebrate an important milestone in the life of our congregation: a quarter century of Susan DeSelms’ music ministry among us. Cue: faithful applause!
For 25 years, Susan has faithfully, passionately, and skillfully guided us in singing our faith, in ways that have put music at the very center of our parish’s spiritual life. As a preacher and worship leader, I am always keenly aware that music can permeate our souls in ways that spoken words can never land. Susan has always understood that music carries us forward, like an ever-flowing stream. She also knows how singing together is a full-body experience, helping unite us more thoroughly as the living, breathing, feeling body of Christ in the world.
For this Sunday’s worship, Susan has prepared a beautiful festival of congregational song, weaving together some of this congregation’s favorites with readings about the spiritual power of music. Afterwards, we will celebrate with a robust reception in the Sanctuary, with some special invited guests.
Following on the heels of last weekend’s Vision Sprint workshop, this Sunday is beautiful occasion to pause, appreciate, sing and celebrate. Let us come and rejoice together!
In faith,
Kent
