We’re moving………..the choir pews 😊
Have you noticed how many individuals are sharing their musical talents with the Cantate Vocal Choir at our 9:30 AM Eucharist? The choir pews are filling up and the time it takes us to gather up by the keyboard and altar rail has increased and the risk of choir members tripping over electrical cords is a concern as well. Over the past year, we’ve been thinking of ways to simplify the movements of the choir and “where” to sing. We’ve also been considering how hymn-singing and service music might benefit from the choir facing the congregation throughout worship.
During the week of August 14, with the support of our Jr. Warden and the Vestry, Al Sauer and others will be moving our choir-reserved pews within the Nave/Sanctuary. What this looks like is a shift of 90 degrees so the Cantate Choir will be able to sit, facing the congregation, and simply stand in place when they are singing an anthem or assisting in worship leadership with hymns, songs, and service music. No pews will be moved out of the nave or altered except for their orientation within the space. Congregational seating will remain the same.
It may be hard to picture in your mind’s eye, but you’ll see the difference starting Sunday, Aug 20. We’ll live with this for a few months and see how it goes, making adjustments if we run into any unforeseen consequences from this change.
Please remember we have three special happenings this Sunday, August 13th:
- We welcome Fr. Philip for his first Sunday back after serving at Good Shepherd, Rocky Mount in June and July, and his position change from Curate to Associate Rector!
- A “pop up” intergenerational choir for the 9:30 AM service. Any and all ages are welcome at 9 am to learn a song that will be offered at the opening of the service. No prior singing experience needed.
- A discussion about expanding Sunday morning worship options at St. John’s. All are welcome to grab a coffee and a quick bite at coffee hour, then gather at 11 AM in the Nave for a discussion with our clergy. You may even bring your coffee with you if you promise to be careful with it.