Singing & Making Music
I know it shouldn't surprise me when God puts something in my path that I just can't miss. This is one of those moments.
As noted in my previous post, I was asked to serve on a search committee at church - a search committee for a minister of worship. Shortly after I accepted the position, I was doing my daily blog reading and saw Tim Challies's review of this book. Feeling the need to further educate myself in the area of worship, church music and the like, I ordered the book. (On a personal note, I don't need much reason at all to purchase and read books - I can't go long without a "fix"). The book showed up today and I managed to read a little in between rehearsals tonight.
I am only 30-some pages into it and it's already proving to be worth more than the cover price. Paul Jones, the author, is the organist and Music Director at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia. I really appreciate his insight into the trends and issues in church music. While I may not completely agree with all of his conclusions, his points are well-made and his thoughts are worth pondering. I have been very involved in the music portion of ministry, both at my previous and current church (I'm a pianist). Jones's propositions cause me to evaluate how music is utilized and presented in church. Not to mention the fact that, with a new perspective, I am also critiquing my methods of playing the piano.
I may have to buy copies of this for the entire search committee. Call me selfish, but there is no way I am parting with my copy.
