I have several items that I would like to share as we begin a new program year:

1.    Our Chancel Choir will resume on Sunday, September 7th with rehearsal beginning (as in the past) at 9:10 am in the choir room 202.  We're certainly always looking for new people to join us.  And we're very fortunate to have strong leadership in all our vocal sections, so it's very easy to get started with us.  You may have noticed that a number of members sit in the congregation with their families and come forward for the anthem. That continues to be an option.  While some of the music can be challenging, Betsy and I try to select anthems that are singable and don't take weeks of practice to master.  In some cases, we have CD recordings that can help in learning a piece. If this is something you've thought about, please come out on the 7th.  Share your email address and we'll keep you informed of what we're planning.

2.    Our Family Choir was an initial success when we started the group a few years ago.  More recently, there has been the challenge of finding convenient times to get together and practice.  We want this group back singing again.  We had some very powerful experiences with both the Family and Chancel Choir voices singing together.  It was quite an intergenerational statement!  I'll be looking to update and add to our family list and expand email addresses this fall.  Let me know if you would have interest in this group.

3.    And, for a number of years now, we've had a praise band, “The Rock,” that most recently has been playing for all of our Rejoicing Spirits services the 2nd Sunday of each month.  We are aggressively looking for musicians to add to this group as well.  If you play guitar, bass, percussion, etc. or would like to be a vocalist for this group, please let me know.  There most likely will be some opportunities to play and support other services throughout the year as well.  It's a great way to share a talent!

4.    This fall, we'll be entering our third full year of our Rejoicing Spirits ministry.   As noted in another part of The Link, we will be learning more about its mission and get a sample of its unique worship style at 10:30 on September 28th.

Rejoicing Spirits is dedicated to sharing God's word and spreading His love to our brothers and sisters with developmental disabilities.  We've created an inclusive, accepting and meaningful worship service adapted to capture the attention and interest of individuals with special needs, along with their families, friends and other supportive community members.  It has also become a great opportunity for families with young children to worship as well.

There are so many reasons to come - lots of music and joyous singing…brief, meaningful messages…a love-filled community…fellowship opportunities…recognition of birthdays…light refreshments.  Individuals are free to be themselves while actively participating as contributing members of this service.  

We've formed a wonderful Rejoicing Spirits team who are helping to grow this ministry for us.  We've placed “Invitation” brochures in our narthex/lobby that you are encouraged to take and share with those who might be interested.  All faiths are welcome.  Rejoicing Spirits can serve as a stepping stone for those wanting to take a first step into a faith community, offers complementary worship and fellowship opportunities for those who already belong to a faith community, and provides an inclusive faith community that can fully meet their needs.  Anyone who has attended tells us that they have been enriched.  We hope to create that type of experience for all of us on the 28th.