from The Messenger, 1/11/2019

“The best, most beautiful way that we have of expressing a sweet concord of mind to each other is by music,” wrote Jonathan Edwards.

I hope you have noticed something take place over the past couple of years in our church: the diversification of our music ministry. Under Mariko Matsumara’s cheerful leadership, more people have become involved instrumentally and vocally in our church.

As we begin this new year, I want to invite you to be among them.

Talk to anyone who has sung or played in our church recently and they will tell you that it was a rewarding experience on many levels. In children, it builds self-confidence and provides memorable lines to strengthen their faith. In adults, it not only enhances that same self-confidence, but it also opens a new pathway to prayer and devotion while enhancing the collective liturgy of the gathered people of God.

Music is at the heart of Christian worship and our faith tradition in general. From biblical times to today, music has been an avenue of prayer that resonates deep in one’s heart.

Martin Luther said “Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul; it is one of the most magnificent and delightful gifts God has given us.”

You don’t have to be a trained singer or a musician to take part in our music ministry. That’s true for a couple of reasons. First, you’re not alone. There are many people already involved who are here to support your joining in.

More importantly, this isn’t about perfection. We “share” music in worship, we don’t “perform” it. In our setting, music is an act of worship within a congregation rather than a concert performed for an audience. That’s not to say that we don’t strive for a good sound and good coordination. Our staff is here to make sure you don’t regret your decision to sing or play! But in the end, all music is meant to deepen our connection to the divine.

“Be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to God with your heart.”–Ephesians 5:18-19

So how about it? I have rarely met a more approachable person than Mariko so don’t hesitate to ask her about this rewarding ministry! Let us know if you are interested or if your child would like to take part!

See you in church,

–Rev. Dominic