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| Young Choir Campers in the chancel at St. Martin's, are led by co-teacher Rae Ann Anderson. The nave of the church is in the background with two girls singing from open folders in the main ground, and other seated campers in the foreground. |
Both the parish house and the sanctuary have been filled this week with music, children’s voices, joy, and laughter. Choir Camp is in full swing. St. Martin’s, under the leadership of our Director of Music, Erik Meyer, is focused on giving the gift of choir music to our young people.
The other week I preached on the power of committing scripture to memory and how we often don’t realize that we already know a verse or even a Psalm by heart. Both words and music form us unconsciously. Hymnody is full of theology that we absorb each time we sing a particular hymn or worship tune. Poetry, theology, and scripture are the bedrock of the ancient and modern hymns of the church.
It is easier to see when you can read the verses without the musical notes lining the entire text…
“Of the Father’s love begotten
‘Er the worlds began to be
He is Alpha and Omega
He the Source the Ending he
Of the things that are, that have been,
And that future years shall see
Evermore and evermore.”
I realized after high school that I had Psalm 23 memorized, along with the hymn I just quoted above, because we sang them set to music in the North Salem High School concert choir. We often learn more quickly when the words or lessons are set to music or rhythms. I still remember chanting my times tables for my mother when I was seven. I can still remember three of the first choir songs I learned in fourth grade with my elementary school choir. All three, while secular, had messages of unity, inclusion, and love.
Giving the gift of music to children is incredibly important for their artistic development and music in the Christian tradition is tremendous for their spiritual development. The theology in our music enfolds and permeates the soul. They are learning that God is love in a multitude of musical settings, surrounded by the voices of friends and peers. The seeds are planted and who knows how and when they will grow?
Sometimes on visits to St. Martin’s members in the hospital I have looked up their favorite hymns on YouTube and played them in the room on my phone. We have sung together the old favorites that people remember from their childhood and youth. These hymns provide comfort in the midst of affliction and anxiety. The ability to connect with a loved one continues through music even when speaking is no longer possible. Some people are still able to sing and respond to music. Music embedded with theology is a balm for the soul.
Next time you pick up a hymnal, take a few minutes to ponder the theological foundation of the verses that you are singing. Do you have a favorite hymn or verse? Why is it so important to you and why do you carry it close to your heart? May you raise your Ebenezer, mourn by the waters of Babylon, claim the almighty fortress of God, and find comfort in the music of the Messiah.
Blessings,
The Rev. Anne Thatcher
Associate Rector
