“Qui bene cantat, bis orat” —“He who sings, prays twice” This quote is often associated with the Christian theologian, philosopher, and bishop, St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430). Though scholars differ on opinions as to factual evidence these words were penned or spoken by him, the theme of this statement, whoever the author, has transcended time…
“When peace like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; Whatever my lot, thou has taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul…” Lift Every Voice and Sing, #188 The word from this text of the well-known hymn penned by Horatio Gates Spafford, a 19th-Century…
“Give thanks with a grateful heart, Give thanks to the Holy One, Give thanks, because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son…” You may recognize this text from this decades old Praise Chart by Henry Smith titled “Give Thanks.” Written in 1978 when Smith (who was born and raised in Crossnore, North Carolina), just graduated from…
Favorites…colors, foods, songs, places, people…consider Biblical figures…who comes to mind? Moses, John, Abraham, Ruth, Josiah? Joe who??? With historical accounts in two separate Old Testament books—II Kings 22-23 and II Chronicles 34-35—the story of Josiah, a Judean king who reigned for 31 years—may not be a prominent name on “favorites” lists. Though a 3+ decade…
Message of the Week Karole Badgley, Director of Music Ministry THE SENSES OF LENT Our senses—each day, we consciously/unconsciously experience life through sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch. A myriad of options await us if we are only open to receiving. The 40 days—6 weeks of Lent: this Journey of Lent. What might your senses…
Everything old is new again— The Cyclical Principle As excitement continues to build for the launch of the TAPESTRY worship service this weekend at St. John’s, one question that surfaces daily is the curiosity about the music for this innovative worship experience. What exactly can worshippers expect when they attend this outdoor service? Let’s begin…