The Hymn Olympics
Disclaimer: Right off the top let me say this is not a perfect analogy. Having said that, I do think there are some similarities between […]
congregational song
But what will it look like?
I have always loved making puzzles. One of my early memories is just that: making puzzles on the living room floor in Meaford, Ontario. I […]
How can I possibly….?
Remember that song from the early 70’s – “There’s got to be a morning after…”? Well, today is the morning after the conclusion of the […]
A Tale of Two Events, Two Projects, Many Sermons and One Magazine
With some regret, and some words of thanks, I take my leave, and take on a new challenge as a missionary for the United Methodist Church, U.S.A., to the World Council of Churches in Geneva.
Seconding a Sentiment
There are many talented people in the Presbyterian church. They could be, should be sharing their gifts as part of a national and denominational strategy for making our worship vibrant and joyful, and for effectively sharing our faith. Are they? And is there a strategy?
Trumpets, Organ Benches and Church Doors
One thing is sure: one size no longer fits all. This variety in our worship and our music will require more from church musicians and more, not less, support, imagination and deep theology from our congregations.
A Winter’s Feast in Grand Rapids
There is an energy, a hungry spirit of enquiry at the Calvin Symposium on Worship, held each January in Grand Rapids. The Symposium shows a passionate commitment to exploring and supporting the arts of worship that we Presbyterians can learn from.
Beloving the Bible
“Living Faith” presents as solid theology of the Bible. What about “beloving” as well as believing the scriptural text. Here are more ideas for authentic and faithful worship.
It’s About Time
Worship is a temporal art which reflects the value we place on time. What kind of time are we as a denomination spending on strong congregational singing?
What Does Vital, Faithful Worship Cost?
Here are some ideas about worship and congregational song that I’ve begged, borrowed, stolen and (what’s more important) used in past years that have made worship more vital and joyful.
Carols Tart and Tender
These carols speak to our time in fresh ways, and bring needed balance whenever we fear nostalgia and greeting-card sentiments rule our Yule.
“Paradise Found”
A new CD of Charles Wesley’s hymns by the creators of Sing Lustily and With Good Courage makes the old new again. Maddy Prior and the Carnival Band present traditional hymns with a “gallery” band—flutes, lutes, fiddles and drums, singing and presenting them as they might have originally been heard.