Notes from the Organ Bench by Martha Requard, Director of Music
As I was searching for inspiration for this month’s article, I picked up the January newsletter and read the prayer of the month, which focuses on our faith journey.  How perfect for February, too, since we are beginning Lent, our journey through darkness to the light of Easter.

It is no accident that Lent begins in the winter when the days are short and we are cold and ends in the spring when the sun returns to lengthen our days and warm our bodies.  During Lent our worship seems darker because we remove the “happy” elements to focus on Jesus’ journey to the cross.  As we worship we remember.

Part of our Lenten journey involves sacrifice.  Many people give up something for Lent.  I always say that I give up time.  But am I really giving it up?  While I do have to prepare for extra services during Lent, I am also busy preparing for the Easter services.  The choirs have an advantage that many worshippers miss.  As they spend their time learning music for Lenten services, they also spend a lot of time on music for Easter.  How lucky they are to be able to experience the joy sooner than the rest of the congregation!

So, with this in mind, I would like to invite you to join the choirs as they prepare for Easter.  Using your talents to help others worship is a gift.  Why don’t you consider sharing yourself this Lent and Easter?  The Adult Choir is beginning to work on “We Remember Calvary,” this year’s Good Friday cantata.  This tenebrae service, which was performed last year, includes familiar hymns.  The Handbell Choirs, both adult and tween, are also beginning to prepare music for Palm Sunday and Easter.  The Children’s Choir is beginning to work on their Palm Sunday anthem.

How about spending some of your journey to prepare for the joy of Easter this year?  Take this opportunity to share your talents with others in worship?  I promise, it will help your faith journey, too.  Until next month keep

Making a joyful noise
Martha Requard
Director of Music