The first Sunday of every month puts me and my mom in worship as the special music.
For awhile, in-person services were put on hold so we’ve been showing up for our live taping session (December and January) with only a few in the sanctuary. Last week had our area Covid case numbers low enough that it was back to our 45-people limit, with 2 services being given: 9 – 9:45, 10:30 – 11:45.
Since my mom is the former choir director, her knowledge of church music is spot-on. For our “gigs”, she hauls out what’s needed for the church calendar to fit into the pastor’s message: Advent, lent, communion, Easter . . . . she knows it all and chooses appropriately to match the liturgical theme.
Today was the first time we’ve had communion in several months. My mom had searched through all the choir communion anthems and found us ones easy enough for me (a non-music major) to manage, with high enough alto parts she could manage. She gave me the soprano melody but she, also a soprano, took the second part. She can read music a whole lot better than I, that’s for sure.
If you’re interested in hearing us, here is the link. We sang an introit, I helped with the Mission Moment (World Service blankets) and we ended with two communion pieces, “In Remembrance” and “At this Table”.
Of course, it would be 5 degrees this morning for church after we’d had a week of in the 30s and 40s. Brrrr!! Made for a very chilly outing. Two weeks ago, we were in our PJs, enjoying our morning coffee while watching the online service. I’m sure many of those who are reading this and are church-goers know that feeling as well. Sure, it’s nice to stay in the comfort of your home for Sunday morning but enough is enough! Despite the frigid temperatures, we were very grateful to be back in the sanctuary once again.
Chinese New Year is Approaching!
February 11 brings in the Chinese New Year, or what the Chinese call Spring Festival. The Year of the Rat exits, the Year of the Ox begins!! Surely it must be better. Go out and have some Chinese food! Don’t forget to greet your hosts with “Gohng-shee, Gohng-shee!” This is said to congratulate one another on the beginning of a new year.
Gohng-shee, Gohng-shee! And Ping An (Peace) for your week.
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