What a glorious Holy Week and Easter! We’ve sung so much music, I can hardly keep track of it all. Next week, I’ll return to my usual commentary about specific pieces, but today I’d like to express my general gratitude for the choir, for their hard work, and for all their dedication over the last few weeks. I’ll specially make mention of Coleman, who has been a lifesaver!  

I often say that we could not do the kind of music that we do without singers who have musical ability, dedication, and a good work ethic. Not only is our music challenging, but it often splits into multiple parts (sometimes 6, 7, or 8!). With so few singers, one must be independent and be able to carry a single line if necessary. There have also been times where several people have called in sick on a Sunday, and we’ve had to scramble at the last minute to make sure parts are covered. You may not be aware of this, but on more than one occasion, we’ve had singers jump onto other parts at the last minute to make it work for Sunday morning.

Only once in the last five years have I had to change an anthem due to unforeseen circumstances. Not only is it hard to believe that I’ve been here for almost five years, but it’s also hard to believe that we’ve had such consistency of quality in the choir, even with a pretty hefty turnover of staff singers and volunteers too.

It just goes to show that we don’t necessarily need specific people in our lives to make things work. The power of God is such that it transcends circumstances – even when people get sick or when there is great change like turnover or other “inconveniences.” Quality can ascend despite variables. This always amazes me. It reminds me that there really are no obstacles, only people not willing to adapt and adjust. When you’re malleable, nimble, and eager, despite your circumstances, God prevails.

God is prevailing in our music ministry. Yes, we have had a great deal of consistency over the years, but like all patterns, the specific group of singers changes almost every Sunday. Rarely do we have everyone here on a given Sunday, yet we always seem to manage swimmingly. That’s the power and peace of God. It truly does surpass understanding (and circumstance), and I’m so grateful to be a part of the unfolding miracle of music we have here at St. Andrew’s. Soli Deo Gloria!