When I was younger, I would become a bit arrogant after I directed successful church concerts. I had to tell myself, “Taemin, you should remember this wasn’t possible without the help of everyone around you.” 

Nowadays? I was surprised when, rather than thinking that way, I just felt and realized that this wasn’t possible without the help of many others, no matter how much I worked hard and prepared for the event. Yes, the Festival Organ Concert on Sunday, October 23, was a success, and I would once more like to say a sincere “Thank You!” to all the choir members, instrumental players, and everyone else who helped me in various areas, as well as those people who were in the pews.

It was a great event, not only for the beautiful music we enjoyed, but also for the opportunity to connect with all the people who love and support the gift of music in our community. For our own choir members, this kind of event gives the chance to gain more strength, vision, and know-how to carry out our holy duties as church musicians in the future.

And now, as you read this article, we are entering Advent and will soon begin incorporating Christmas music into worship. For those with an interest in music, this is a perfect time to become involved. On behalf of the Chancel Choir and the Celebration Ringers, I invite you to join our December rehearsals as we prepare for our Christmas Eve service.

Attending two or three Thursday rehearsals in December is enough to prepare. You have no obligation to continue after December 24, though you are truly welcome to join us into the New Year. For the Christmas Eve service, we will have guest string players in addition to our own instrumentalists. We already have some beautiful Christmas anthems in store. So, this is your chance to simultaneously enjoy the Christmas music and participate in its delivery for God’s glory in worship!

Finally, don’t forget our last event of 2022. The outstanding concert organist, Adam Brakel, will hold a concert in our sanctuary on Saturday, December 31, at 7:30 p.m. See you there, music lovers!

Soli Deo Gloria (To God Alone Be Glory)!