by Reverend Gerry Bennet, Assisting Priest,
(from February 2001 Tidings)
Gerry’s Geriatric Glimmerings
A Singing Faith
God sent His singers upon the earth
with songs of sadness and of mirth,
that they might touch the hearts of men,
and bring them back to heaven again.
— The Singers, by Longfellow
The Christian faith is a singing faith. Historians have stated that Martin
Luther won more converts through his encouragement of congregational singing than through
preaching and teaching. The same is true of the Wesley's in the 18th century. Throughout
history periods of great renewal have been accompanied by great music, and an increase in
congregational singing. Dwight Moody left us these words about singing:
"I feel sure that the great majority of people do like singing. It helps build up an
audience, even if you preach a dry sermon. If you have singing that reaches the heart it
will fill the church every time. There is more to be said in the bible about praise than
prayer, and music and song have not only accompanied all scriptural revivals, but are
essential in deepening spiritual life. Singing does at least as much as preaching to
impress the Word of God upon people's minds. Ever since God first called me, the
importance of praise expressed in song has grown upon me."
A notable feature of any church that is alive is its singing. This form of worship has
lifted many hearts from despair and lethargy to joy and gladness. St. Paul wrote to the
Ephesians, "Seek the joy which comes from the Spirit's indwelling, so that you may
edify one another with devout songs of praise to Christ, accompanied by the melody of the
heart." (Ephesians 5:18, 19). Songs will challenge the unbeliever, edify the saint
and fan the fires of renewal.
We have come through a Christmas season filled with the music we all love and appreciate,
which prompts these words. What a joy to behold is our Music Ministry, a vital part of our
worship. I never cease to appreciate the labor of love that emanates from the hearts (and
hands and voices) of our music team, so lovingly presented by our musicians. Coordinating
the mood of each worship service with the whims and caprices of any rector is a tough job,
but one that enhances our worship. Little wonder that our Minister of Music is so
wonderfully appreciated!
None of that work, however, would be successful without the singing on the part of the
congregation. Hymn singing reflects this congregation's spiritual vitality and response to
God's Grace. A spiritual church is a singing church. God has given this congregation a
talent for expressing spiritual feelings and truths with music. This is evident in our
service. Use and develop this talent, for music can praise the Lord as no other medium
can. Hymns are a rich deposit of Christian devotion, echoing the adoration and uplifting
the faithful on earth.
Praise ye the Lord: for it is good to sing praises unto our God;
for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.
— Psalm 147:1
Father Gerry+
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