Musical Praise
The music ministry of Community Federated Church is as varied as the instrumentalists and singers in the congregation and community. The music presented at the 8:00 a.m. Sunday service is currently composed of Praise & Bluegrass styles. The music during the 10:30 AM Sunday service is the traditional and gospel music including a choir, piano, organ, handbells and occasionally, special instrumental or vocal solos. Participation All are encouraged to participate and share the blessing of praising God with their musical talents. Rehearsal Schedule: (Suspended during the summer (June, July & August) Simple Gifts, a bluegrass Gospel group, rehearses on Wednesday evenings starting at 6:20 p.m. Choir practice is held on Wednesday evenings starting at 6:45 p.m. Bell Choir rehearsals follow on Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m. |
Music Director: Ellen Mortimore (retired)
As my choir director position grows to a close at the end of August and passes easily into the hands of our interim pastor, Ross, I reflect: I believe I began directing in 1960, shortly after moving to my husband’s hometown. I followed Director Mrs. Zimmerman. During the years the choir was directed one year by DeElda Grogan and another by band director, Dustin Olsen. As pastors have come and gone, it has always been a new experience learning their desires for musical presentations. And the many years of pianists, Virginia Mortimore, Donna Eberspacher, Hope ?, and of course, our present gifted pianist, Nancy Williams. As I love teaching, seeing the choir progress throughout each year is joyful as we sing’s God’s words and messages written by wonderful God-inspired men and women. I have a passion for ecumenical efforts in the community and those efforts have been memorable. For several years, director’s workshops of 3-5 days were held and we had the privilege working/learning from composers – memorable times! The communication of the Word through skits and theater is important to me. The actors have been fantastic as well as the back-up of the choir! Retirement is not in my vocabulary so singing in the choir will be a pleasant change and I will continue playing piano/organ as needed. Thank you, Lord, and thank you, Community Church, for granting me this time of love making music with such a loving choir family. |