Dear Faith Lutheran Church Congregation,
“Why not?”
That has been my general theme since I began full time at Faith last year. Why not reinvigorate and raise the bar for the Adult Choir? Why not have Handbell Choir play at more services? Why not begin a PreK-5th grade Children’s Choir, even if the only rehearsal time that works is the first 30 minutes of Sunday School? Why not choose new repertoire that reflects a wide variety of genres, challenges, composers, arrangers, and messages that enhance the worship experience? Why not add new, modern, Christian contemporary music to the Saturday night blended worship service? Why not challenge the ensembles with repertoire they will grow from? Why not recruit new music participants, even if they aren’t confident in their musical abilities? Why not reconfigure the Saturday night blended service praise team? Why not partner with Lake Forest College’s music department? Why not invite guest artists to perform for us, such as the Concordia University Chicago Wind Symphony and Concordia University Wisconsin Kammerchor? Why not begin a children’s hand chime ensemble?
These are the various “why not?” scenarios that I’ve challenged myself with. It’s important to strive for things beyond our wildest dreams, even if at a slow pace. God’s timing is everything. We have so many opportunities as a church to make a difference in the lives of our congregants, visitors, and beyond. I challenge you with this: why not? Why not strive for excellence? Why not go the extra mile for the glory of God (whether it’s music or anything else)? What is holding you back? I try to challenge myself in this way with every opportunity I’m given.
I hope you enjoy the rest of the Lenten season, Holy Week, Easter, and beyond, as we share our God-given musical gifts with you. Find out where you can apply a “why not?” statement in your life. See where God takes you—life is full of adventures just waiting to happen. God’s musical blessings,
Sean J. M. Newman
Director of Worship and Music Ministry
“I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters; in the assembly I will sing your praises.” Hebrews 2:12