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Autumn - Fall - a beautiful time of year! I am thankful that the Aiken Civic Orchestra Concert "Simply Baroque" with their consort and soloists presented a really lovely, artistic experience on Friday, Sept. 13th at St Paul. The Orchestra will bring their Pops Program - Spooktacular to us on Friday, October 25th - Music and Fun for the Community!

I am also thankful for those who work so faithfully to bring music through instruments, singing, concerts and support into our worship and community life. We are truly blessed by your efforts. This Fall, as our nation heads into an election, I encourage every artist to take a breath when the people around you or online may become a bit much to bear. When you feel overwhelmed, take a breath - the power you have is in your response to what is going on around you. Hold that power - take a breath - and continue your art form and do your best to remember that others are anxious with you - so give them a little space too.

Musically - we continue to prepare to head into October - with our Consecration Sunday on the 6th (with a special anthem, yes!) And then into Reformation, All Saints, Christ the King. Then there is Advent with Lessons and Carols and Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the Christmas Season! It will be here before you know it!

To help you take a breath, here are a couple of lovely pieces of music by other musicians. To listen, copy the underlined link into your browser. Take a breath and let the music bring you peace or maybe bring you to life! Know that you are not alone.

I wish you all the best, and as you read this - know that we are lifting you in prayer as well. 

St. Olaf Choir
Every Time I Feel the Spirit - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMqkmX5cmSQ

The Northern Lights Chorale
Set Me As a Seal Upon Your Heart - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oUxslE71_9A

The Pacific Lutheran University Choir 
Beautiful Savior (Christiansen) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjVLzqffzII

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