It was with a joyful noise that the Psalmist praised the living God 3,000 years ago, and it was with a joyful noise that God’s people continued to praise Him this week at Camp Meeting. Amid laughter and comradery, Kathy Russell rehearsed with eager choir clinic participants in preparation for the Sabbath worship service. Despite losing her voice, Russell battled on with help from her husband, Rick, who helped “translate.”
The reason for Russell’s perseverance is that she believes wholeheartedly that “the Holy Spirit can use the words and music together to drive the message of God’s love home to our hearts.” Not only does the Holy Spirit work through the power of shared song but also ensemble music requires a team mentality regardless of any individual’s prior choral experience. “It takes everyone working together to make the song complete,” Russell said. “We can all learn together and be a blessing to one another.” She went on to say that choir singers should be like non-stinging jellyfish – enjoying each other’s presence but not stinging other people. Relationships are built in choir. “That’s how it should be in the church! We should be united and work together, sharing all our gifts,” Russell concluded.
If you would like to share your musical talents and experience what it’s like to be part of an ensemble, Russell invites all who are interested to come join the team. Make sure to sign up for the choral ensemble at next year’s Camp Meeting.
—BENJAMIN LAWSON
photos by: Jessica Kovach