For the past year we have worked together to memorize, learn, discuss and digest a different Bible verse each week – “52 Great Verses of the Bible.” Click on these links to view the Bible verses: 52 Bible Verses and 12 Great Longer Verses . This was another way for us to take hold of some of the notable passages of Scripture – letting them guide and support us. This effort concluded at the end of August. What a year it has been! We have read. We have memorized. And, we have had the Scriptures permeate our lives. Thank you for joining me in this endeavor.
As we begin a new program and ministry year in September we move on to another way that helps our faith grow and strengthen – Singing the Songs of Faith: 52 Great Hymn Stanzas. Pastor Paul worked with our former Organist/Director of Music Thatcher Lyman, Izzie Davis and Jeremy Shoop (Organist/Director of Music Ministries at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Herndon, VA) to identify 52 Great Hymn Stanzas. Beginning in September we highlight a different hymn stanza each week. And, we will encourage you to ‘memorize’ the stanza the same way we memorized the Bible verses of this past year.
Music so often will penetrate into our lives in very special ways – communicating God’s care and love, reassuring us in troubling times, conveying thanksgiving and joy, and even expressing our deepest feelings or thoughts. These hymns are born from faith and grounded in the scripture’s witness to God’s interaction with God’s people and all creation.
During the coming year, the stanzas will vary. Some will be old favorites. Some will be new or different. Each of them was selected to witness to the faith we are given and help us grow in our appreciation for the diversity and depth of God’s love. Click on the link to view the hymns: 52 Great Hymns_web
Thank you for intentionally committing this past year to learning more of the Scriptures, our first language of faith. And, join in the effort to continue the growing and deepening of that faith.
