Every now and then, someone at church remarks on the apparent miracle of the suitability of the hymns (chosen by Mr B) for the lectionary of the day, and while it is true that Mr B chooses the hymns with great care and does in fact read the lectionary readings while doing so, he is helped by a useful RSCM publication which lists a multitude of suggestions from a variety of hymnbooks. One of the suggestions for today's final hymn was We are Marching in the light of God.
At first it seemed an odd choice. Lent. Mainstream church. A particularly trying time for our diocese and for our congregation, as the challenges of our Victorian buildings multiply and with them the tradesmens' bills. But in fact it turned out to be just right. This African song, with its origins in protest, lifted us on this freezing Sunday so that we sang, and clapped (on the back beat too!), and felt warmer, and found ourselves smiling. Yes, things are hard in our church just now - but we aren't alone, are we?
And I'd never in a month of Sundays have thought the congregation of Holy T would swing so well!
Victorian Swing...I can see it now. Remember, I *do* have a vivid imagination!!!
ReplyDeleteI love African music, having enjoyed it some via a group named Selah. The group originally began as a brother, sister, and another fellow. The brother and sister grew up as missionary kids in the Congo. Thus, they always included some traditional African music on their CD's.
March on, dear sister, march on!!!