“Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.” -Psalm 25:5 (NRSV)
The pandemic put a stop to many things that I had previously considered to be essential in my life. One of the things I have missed the most has been participating in St. Paul’s Choir. Singing in a church choir is an offering to God and the congregation. It is also a gift to the singer. There is something very special when a disparate group of individuals comes together and combines voices to create something new. The synchronization of breathing together, entering on the proper note, and ending together requires practice – together. It is the ultimate bumper sticker moment: Those who sing, pray twice.
What God has taught me is to appreciate the opportunity to learn the new skill of electronically combining the videos faithfully recorded by David and members of the choir into a virtual anthem. I knew the capability existed and had admired the work of others. But little did I know that the necessary software was already on my computer and detailed instructions could be found on YouTube!
God has taught me many things as I have struggled to replicate the synchronization that comes so naturally when practicing in person. Being a teacher and a mother taught me a lot about patience – but learning this new skill required Patience with a capital “P.” We and I have improved (mostly) in our offerings, but there is much still to learn.
My hope is that the level of contagion will soon subside enough to begin to practice and sing in person. In the meantime, I thank God for the faithfulness of David and the choir members as we work together to continue to contribute to the worship experience.
Thank you, God, for teaching me new things, even when I don’t necessarily want to learn them. Be with all those who have suffered illness and loss during this pandemic and keep us ever grateful for the opportunity to sing your praises – in person and virtually. Amen.
-Cathey Frederick