How Can I Keep from Singing?

A mirthful gathering of Chancel Choir members at Vino's after our last spring season Wednesday evening rehearsal.

My life flows on in endless song above earth's lamentations.
I hear the real, though far-off hymn that hails a new creation.
Through all the tumult and the strife I hear its music ringing.
It sounds an echo in my soul; How can I keep from singing?
-  attributed to "Pauline T."

This Sunday, we come to the end of the music ministry's spring season with Plymouth's music ensembles taking a much deserved summer break for rest and rejuvenation. The Plymouth Ringers and Kids Will Sing! gifted us with their closing offerings last Sunday. This week, the Chancel Choir presents the 19th century American folk hymn "How Can I Keep from Singing?" in a lovely anthem setting by Taylor Davis with violinist Amy Welsh and flutist (and Plymouth's Interim Minister!) Pam Petersen joining in. 

The inspirational text, attributed only to "Pauline T.," likely first appeared in print in The New York Observer in the mid-1800's and was soon after set to the beloved tune by Robert Lowry. The text is a love poem to the beauty, vitality, and inherent spirituality of music. That no matter the circumstances in our lives, whether it be a time of strife and conflict or joy and love, an infectious song from the Divine reaches out to carry us through and inspire us to truly be alive. 

I see this spirit embodied in our music volunteers across the spectrum of their chosen mode of expression — how can I keep from ringing? Indeed! — and for that we should be very grateful. Come join us in whatever capacity you are able to also! Consider it an invitation — the music ministry is open to all. But together we can always cherish the communal opportunity to sing the sacred texts of hymns and songs in unity each week as Christians have done for a millennia. How can we not?   

Additionally this Sunday, violinist Amy Welsh presents an excerpt of the exuberant first movement of Edvard Grieg's "Sonata No. 1 in F Major" during the Prelude. And to close worship, a joyful organ setting of the opening hymn "God of Grace and God of Glory" by Paul Manz brings us full circle to the message of bringing God's Kin-dom to this troubled world, with the faithful support and guidance of the Spirit, and allowing it to grow and flourish. As stated in verse 1 from The New Century Hymnal, "God of grace and God of glory, on your people pour your power; crown your ancient church's story; bring its bud to glorious flower. Grant us wisdom, grant us courage for the facing of this hour."