Gloria

I woke up this morning before my alarm clock went off to a nice breeze through the window, the sound of birds outside, and the opening measures of Gloria by Antonio Vivaldi in my head. It was a beautiful way to begin the day.

Last night we had the final rehearsal, with orchestra, for Vivaldi's Gloria which will be part of our worship service this Sunday, April 5th. There were a few times during the evening when I could close my eyes and listen to the orchestra playing, or the beautiful solos being sung. As I listened, I could actually feel stress leave my neck and shoulders and a peacefulness settle in. Hearing it all come together, I realized why the Gloria is so well-loved. It is beautiful, soul-stirring music!

Following the rehearsal, May, our Minister of Music, asked us to reflect on what singing in the choir meant to us. I heard people say that the choir was like an extended family, that the music helped them get through the week and helped them feel God's presence. Several of us commented on how May made such a difference by always being positive and bringing out the best in each of us. (She is one of the most positive and uplifting people I know!) And, like me, there were others who found that the music would often replace stress with peacefulness, and stay in their heads throughout the week.

On Sunday, the Gloria will provide the sermon-in-song. I am sure it will be a message that people remember!