Music Ministry
“Beautiful music is the art of the prophets that can calm the agitations of the soul;
it is one of the most magnificent and delightful presents God has given us.” -Martin Luther
Martin Luther differed from the other church reformers in that he wholeheartedly embraced music in worship as an exalted expression of divine truth and Christian faith. Calvin strictly regulated the use of music in church and restricted its use to the congregation only. Zwingli banned music from worship altogether and even participated in the destruction of church organs. Luther, on the other hand, retained much from the Catholic liturgy – discarding elements that he believed to be heretical, but retaining what he believed to be divine and scriptural as well as elements that while not directly from the scriptures, were doctrinally inoffensive. He greatly enhanced the congregation’s roll in singing the liturgy and was instrumental in the development of the congregational hymn or chorale.
The music program at First Lutheran Church offers an approach to music that preserves a sense of the sacred. The congregational hymns are chosen both for the appropriateness of the texts, which are rooted in scripture, and for the appropriateness of the musical settings of these hymns, which are not of a cheap popular or commercial nature. The best of the German and English traditions are strongly represented. The music that the choir sings is taken from the vast treasure trove of Christian music – including anthems, motets and chants from many different eras of Christian history. We choose music for organ and other instruments based on its appropriateness for use in Christian worship. Once again, we avoid music that is crude or shallow or ambiguous in its purpose as an expression of Christian faith, love and joy in doing the will of God.
We welcome into our music program all who wish to offer their God-given talent as a part of true worship from the heart. We hope you will join us in leading this congregation to inspired and fruitful worship of our almighty, everlasting, merciful and loving God.
Prayer for Church Musicians and Artists
O God, whom saints and angels delight to worship in heaven; be ever present with us your servants who seek through art and music to perfect the praises offered by your people on earth; and grant to us even now glimpses of your beauty, and make us worthy at length to behold it unveiled for evermore; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
