Page 6 - December 2019

Music Ministry

dvent begins the Sunday closest to November It is then, above the whistle of the winter wind, the
A30th but the Chancel Choir has rehearsed Advent first notes of a distant “Gloria” arrives. Soft at first, it
and Christmas music since the beginning of September. comes like a dream, and then in the great crescendo, it
During Advent this year, the Chancel Choir will present sweeps across our emptiness and fills our hearts with a
“Appalachian Winter - A Cantata for Christmas” by symphony of angel wings. The mountains and canyons
Joseph M. Martin on Sunday, December 8th at 7:00 echo like cathedrals declaring the news: “Jesus the
pm in the sanctuary. The congregation will sing some Savior is born. Glory to God in the Highest.”
traditional carols. Here is the forward that J. M. M.
wrote for the cantata: Overflowing with worship and surrounded by grace, we
discover our miracle. Melody and message reach out
"At the beginning of winter there is a blessed quietness and draw us close into their lavish embrace. Rejoicing,
that seems to settle upon the heart. The chill of frosty and filled with wonder, we join the music, lifting our
air and the season’s lengthening shadows invite us to praise into the night. How amazing that in the very
reflection and simplicity. As we retreat to the hearth heart of winter’s desolation, we have sound our song."
and away from the cold, there is a subtle turning that
seems to happen. Weary from struggle and frozen Advent music will continue during December with
by distress, we find warmth and assurance inside the Wesley Ringers playing “Il Est Né” (He Is Born)
our sanctuaries of contemplation. Peace falls like a on December 1st. Jeanne Mundy will play the violin
gentle snow and we remember, with great hope, the during Communion. Lorraine Jones will play the flute
promises of our faith. The candles of hope, peace, love on December 24th.
and joy are once again kindled in our spirits. We gaze
with longing into the silent night, seeking a star and Blessings for the upcoming season of Advent followed
listening for a song that will fill the deep silence and set by Christmas filled with peace and joy.
our hearts to celebration.
Soli Deo Gloria
Paul

ladies book club

DECEMBER'S BOOK:
"Same Kind of Different as Me"
By: Denver Moore, Ron Hall, Lynn Vincent
Wed., Dec. 11th  Meet at the church 11:00 am
his book is about a modern-day slave, an
Tinternational art dealer, and the unlikely woman
who bound the two together. It's an emotional tale
women's bible study of pain and laughter, doubt and tears.

In January, we will be offering We will meet at the church at 11:00 am to carpool to Cohen's Retreat
a Women’s Bible study. We are to enjoy lunch out as a group and discuss the book. Please RSVP so
currently reviewing the best options we have a headcount for lunch by emailing michelle@siumc.org.
for a study as well as the best day/
time to offer the study. If you would
like to participate, please email Red Cross Blood Drive
michelle@siumc.org and let her know Monday, December 9th
your best days and times to meet. 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm