Music Notes for September 4
We open our service today with a familiar morning song of praise, All creatures of our God and King. The sequence hymn Spirit of God, descend upon my heart, is one of a repertory of sequence hymns that I am compiling for us to use regularly. The texts of these hymns serve as contemplative aids to help us open our hearts and minds to receive the message of the Gospel.
Other music for today was chosen to support the theme of our Offertory Anthem, “Day by Day,” from Stephen Schwartz’s rock musical Godspell. The simple text offers us three ways to “serve the Lord:” see Thee more clearly; love Thee more dearly; follow Thee more nearly.” Gini Thomas will present the lovely melody and moving words in a very special way. The texts of both the Communion and Post-Communion hymns continue that theme, as they express our desire to follow Jesus “more nearly.” I want to walk as a child of the light is a fine example of the wonderful contemporary hymns to be found in our familiar 1982 hymnal. We are Called is an inspiring and lively recessional that I’ve borrowed from the United Methodist contemporary hymnal. It may be unfamiliar to our congregation, but it is a favorite at my previous church home, First United Methodist. The text perfectly expresses the message Jesus’s call to follow him and to carry his message of hope and justice out into the world.
Announcements from the Music Director
On August 28, we had a very productive meeting concerning our fall music plans. Thanks to all who attended and signed up for Music at St. A’s. We would love to have even more of you involved in the choir and other musical activities at St. Augustine. Therefore we have a wonderful trial offer for you:
On September 11, 18, and 25 we invite anyone who loves to sing to join the choir in presenting the anthem at the 10:00 service. We will rehearse at 9:00 on those Sundays. The anthems will be easy-to-sing and easy-to-learn. The ability to read music is a plus, but not a necessity. If you can hear a tune a few times and then comfortably sing along with a group, then you have what it takes to be a part of our September choir. This is a no-risk opportunity for you to try out singing with the choir with no further obligations! So, just show up at 9:00 on any or all of the Sundays and join our wonderful group of enthusiastic singers. On October 2, we will have a chime, percussion, and melody instrument ensemble. This will also be a “pick-up group” that will rehearse before church on the 2nd. If you are interested in being a part of that musical extravaganza, please see me or send me an email.
Our regular evening choir rehearsals will begin on Thursday, September 29 at 6:15. ( Gathering and warm-ups at 6:00 for those who can come earlier). Sunday warm-ups and rehearsals will continue at 9:00.
If you have questions, please see me at church, or email me: peggy.holloway5@gmail.com.