As I begin writing this, the trebles are starting their
warm-up exercises with Mr. Balling in the choir room here at beautiful Ely
Cathedral. Their sweet tones open my mind to the realization of what we as
individual and collective ministers of music bring to those we encounter here
in England. Our rehearsals prepare us to share our gifts with those we meet.. That
sharing allows the choirs, but more importantly, each of us individually to
make that human link with those that hear us. We are sharing the texts of
anthems, psalms and hymns. Beautiful words describing our faith find a direct
and unforgettable path to the hearts of those we encounter.
Two occasions thus far stand out in my mind. The anthem we sang
on Tuesday, a setting of the Evening Hymn Te Lucis Anterterminum by H. Balfour
Gardiner is a soaring and thrilling example of a prayer for divine assistance
for a safe passage through the night. During the service, I was able to see the
faces of those listening. Many closed their eyes and looks of quiet tranquility
were combined with broad smiles during the powerful sections of that anthem. In
particular one of the clergy had tears of joy streaming from the creases of his
eyes. Our voices spoke to his soul, and observing his reaction, he spoke to
mine.
Yesterday at the American Cemetary and World War II
Memorial, after seeing the serene and splendid memorial, we gathered in the
chapel for a quiet service. At the conclusion we sang the Gloria from the Nunc
Dimitis by C.V. Stanford that we had sung the night before. The stunning
harmonies filled the chapel and all present were taken to place of beauty and
thankfulness. The retired Marine in attendance, while standing tall and proud, found
his heart moved expressed in the single tear coming to rest on his cheek.
This is why we do what we do. The choristers all, young and
not so young, have the opportunity and the honor of sharing God’s love with all
we encounter. Doing so, we keep all these things close in our hearts, and help
us to move closer to God.
Richard Giles
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