What would Christmas Eve be like without singing “Silent Night?”
Can you imagine an Easter without singing “Hail Thee Festival Day?”
Music adds an emotional depth to our prayers. Hymns give voice to our greatest joys and our most profound griefs. St. Augustine said that when we sing, we pray twice. Through the lifting of voices, our worship is enhanced, enriched, and heightened. This is particularly true here at Trinity Episcopal Church of Staunton.
Trinity’s music program has a long tradition of excellence:
- We’ve been blessed for decades with dedicated organists and choir directors.
- We’ve been supported by a long line of passionate choristers.
- We benefit tremendously from the vibrant sound of our Taylor and Boody Opus 34 organ.
The tradition of excellence in music is alive and well today at Trinity!
A Commitment to Music Ministry
Having never sung in a choir, I’m continually amazed at the hard work and countless hours offered by our (completely volunteer) choristers — both adults and youth.
For instance, did you know that the adult choristers commit to almost five hours per week during the program year? They come to rehearsal every Thursday from 6:30 to 8:30 pm and then again by 9am on Sunday, prior to the 10:15 Eucharist service.
They sing not only on Sundays, but also for Holy Week, Christmas, Evensongs, and other special programs. They also offer their gift of music for funerals.
Our youth choristers also give generously of their time and talent. They rehearse each Tuesday afternoon. They gave up their Saturday morning for a choir clinic. They’ll spend a week this summer in Choir Camp. And like their adult mentors, they are acutely aware that their work is a ministry offered to support and care for God’s people. They know they’re making a difference in the world through the gift of music.
A Celebration of our Choristers
On Sunday, May 15th at 5pm, Trinity’s choirs, under the leadership of Virginia Bolena, our Director of Music, will offer one more gift to the congregation before entering a summer respite: A Choral Evensong with worship, prayer, and the resounding sounds of our choristers’ voices. A “pay what you will” offering will be collected with proceeds going towards support of our youth chorister program.
Following the forty-five-minute service, we’ll have a picnic to celebrate and show our appreciation for the gifts of time, talent, and service these 60 or so choristers of all ages give to Trinity throughout the programming year. Trinity will provide the hamburgers and fixings (as well as non-meat alternatives) for this festive feast. Please bring a side dish to share.
This Sunday’s end-of-year Evensong and Cookout offers an opportunity to once again have our worship enriched by their gift of musical leadership, as well as a chance to show our appreciation for their dedication to this important ministry. I hope to see you on Sunday at 5!
— AJ Heine, Rector, Trinity Episcopal Church of Staunton
