"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice" - Philippians 4:4: (KJV)

In a way of participating in the church's endeavor as staff through new vision planning, we are having book discussions on Tuesdays with a book, titled "Memories, Hopes, and Conversations" by Mark Lau Branson.  This week we are reading the 3rd chapter, and it's about our thanksgiving and gratitude of what God has given us.  Many writers in the Bible such as David and Paul show us that they thanked God and praised Him even in their worst situations. The book says that this is an essential attitude for us before any acts or petitions before God.

If our hearts are full of joy and praising God when we pursue our new future, based on our efforts in analyzing our past and current situations, we can be more open to God's voice and be ready to follow Him. 

During this important time, our choir is preparing for our annual concert on Sunday, May 4.  The program includes, Henry Purcell's anthem "Rejoice in the Lord Alway" and Handel's "Swell the Full Chorus." As we did before, we will have a good balance in the program between instrumental and vocal music: Handel's organ concerto, "The Cuckoo and the Nightingale" and Quantz's Trio Sonata for oboe, bassoon and piano will be part of the instrumental music portion.  And much more spiritual and energetic choral music will cheer us up.

Music has been an integral part of our church's history and mission for the community.  Our strong vision and consistent support for this tradition will be our answer for God's calling.  Many of our choir members have been faithfully serving with their talents and commitment for decades and will always be ready to have more people joining us to share this wonderful ministry.     

The month of April will be a good time for anyone who wants to sing with us for the concert to join. Wednesday evening rehearsal is 7:30 to 9 p.m. and the earlier part of the rehearsal will be used for the concert program.  For more information, please contact me at taemin@1stpresby.org.

Again, fellow church members, let us rejoice in the Lord always…