Music Ministry
The Chancel Choir of Second Presbyterian Church serves a vital role in the life of the congregation. The primary purpose of the Chancel Choir is to serve and lead our congregation in worship each Sunday. The choir sings literature from the entire spectrum of sacred choral music and provides anthems that coordinate with the theme for the worship service each Sunday. From its origin, Second Presbyterian has had a deep appreciation for everyone’s involvement in music. From the beginning, in 1874, the Session – the church governing body -decided that there would be no paid church choir, so that all the people would be encouraged to praise God through song. At that time, in most churches, choir members frequently were paid, so Second made a bold move.
Now, like then, we appreciate broad involvement in music. We recognize that music is not performance, but praise, and we offer praise through a variety of musical styles.
There are numerous verses of scripture which encourage the people of God to worship in song. One such reference says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with gratitude in your heart.” (Colossians 3:16)
We love receiving new members into our choir family and we have open membership opportunities for the choir at any time for those interested. Choir rehearsals are are held during the Fall, Winter, and Spring months on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-9:00 p.m. (in the sanctuary). Our choir takes an annual summer recess in July and August and resumes rehearsals on the Wednesday after Labor Day weekend. If you are interested in being a part of the chancel choir, please contact our Director of Music Bob Shoup at (757) 423-2822.