Christmas and Epiphany

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 Christmas - it's always beautiful, and this year was lovely. We now step into the time of Epiphany, when we remember how the sages or "wise men" from the East followed the star to find the baby Jesus, the Morning Star, sent by God to save us all.

The season of Epiphany is short this year - we will finish up on Februay 11th with the day of Transfiguration, and head into Lent on February 14th - Ash Wednesday. 

But the music will flow throughout - as we celebrate the ministry of Jesus, of how he did and still does connect with humanity - how he influences our lives, and brings us to a place of connection - where we know we can find peace, because of Jesus Christ. Our music will reflect some of that during the next 6 weeks. On the 21st, both choirs will sing "Come Follow Me" by John Leavitt, with Alea Atkinson playing the instrumental part. This lovely anthem takes us through different meters, mapping out our journey that always has a constant beat - the love of Jesus Christ.

On January 28th, the 8:30 and 11:00 Choirs will sing "Walk in the Light" by Andre Thomas. This lively anthem with a gospel feel harks through the message of Christmas to the Light of the world that comes into our lives in Jesus Christ. Tension and resolution weave throughout this anthem, much as they do our every day lives! Yet, the ending is a satisfactory reminder of God with us.

For 9:45 worship in January, Donna Derrick will join Chris Morgan once or twice during the month to bring some different texture to the music in worship. I look forward to the intentional energy they bring as they lead us in songs of love, forgiveness, and the light of Christ that shines for our world.

I pray that these days where the hours are shorter, less light and a slightly crazy world around us - that you can feel, see and hear the presence of God in the music around you. For God is surely with us. Emmanuel!

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