Choirs? What are they good for?

And the answer is: absolutely everything!

The organ (AKA 'the king of instruments') and the English choral tradition have been the backbone of  the worshipping communities in this land of ours since the instrument was invented. Add to this the Book of Common Prayer (still the principal prayer book of the Church of England) services of Communion, Matins and Evensong with anthems, pointed psalms and hymns and bingo - life is sublime.

Last week I was privileged to be part of an exceedingly good reflective evening as our parish choir led us with 'Darkness to Light' . Like many church choirs, those who took part had many years on the clock but that only added to my respect as they moved around the church building and led us in music, voice and Scripture; as they processed on their journey, we too began our journey.

So this is but a passing nod to those stalwart members of our churches across this land of ours who give up evenings to practice and Sundays to lead their congregations - and a thumbs up to those who keep the choral tradition supported by their playing of the organ and other instruments. Worship is made up of hearts, minds, words (and silence) and music - let us never ever think that there's only one way to do church - nor look only to modern music and instruments as the way to attract people to church.

Here are some images of those of whom I am so very proud to know and worship alongside and of whose presence I and so very grateful:

Can you see him here!

Can you see him here?!

Where's Wally?

(and to the choir members: help yourselves to these images - I've posted them for you to have access to them and point friend here too so they can celebrate with us)

ps. Organisations to join (or at least support):

Royal School of Church Music

Prayer Book Society

Gregorian Association

Praxis

Discipleship - the answer to the Church's prayers?

An interesting discussion relating to how the salvation of the Church is to be found in 'discipleship' has challenged me because whilst I don't disagree with what the words might mean - I do struggle with the attitude that looks at people doing because they have to rather than them doing because they have the desire - and that this desire comes about through an emerging spiritual identity and  consistent, prayerful and holistic spirituality.

A recent conversation with a number of clergy colleagues brought into the clear a consensus view that the numbers of those who came and were happy merely to attend church on a fairly regular basis but were put off by being asked to become involved. As one person put it, 'No matter what we do, we can't get them to do anything - they are content to just come and be served!'

And so I walk a tightrope that sees me working to help people find their identity with, and in, God through Christ and to come to that place of initial stillness that leads them into a place of increasingly secure, and enabling, Christian spirituality which cements the forgiveness and acceptance of the cross and, in combination with teaching, and unfolding of the words within, leads them to a place whereby their baptismal (and other) calling can be made real: and from here the life, and Church, enabling that is being a true disciple can be manifest.

Discipleship is a lifestyle choice and act, not something that can be imposed or demanded and it is our role to sow the seeds and nurture them in those we are called to pastor - this is our mission and our joy, for surely it is the Missio Dei - to engender in self, and others, the heartbeat of Christ and the becoming like Him in heart, mind and (of course) action.

Pax