Greetings! My name is Chris and I’m a Confessional Lutheran (LCMS) parish musician in the Pacific Northwest. I play the organ, piano, handbells, and a bit of the alto recorder.

My interest in church music and Lutheran worship and theology have grown hand in hand. Luther wrote, “Music is an outstanding gift of God and next to theology.” The study of Lutheran worship and theology informs and influences my vocation as a parish musician and the music I play (or choose to avoid).

“The richer the background in Lutheran doctrine, mores, and music, the more nearly will the musician approach the true ideal of a Lutheran musician and servant of God in church.” — Hugo Gehrke

This blog, then, is a reflection and commentary on the interrelationship between music, Lutheran worship, and theology. And what an important relationship it is. Ultimately our theology reflects how we worship, and how we worship reflects our theology.

I encourage you to come along for the ride. We might both learn and grow together in this journey culminating in an everlasting feast of victory. Until then, we feast on the gifts Christ gives us through His means of grace – His Word and Sacraments. What could be better than forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation?

Top Posts

If you’re new to this site, you might be interested in reading the most popular posts of all time (and a few personal favorites).   If you still want more reading material, you’re welcome to review the archives (chronological and topical).

• Compline – Prayer at the Close of the Day
• LSB Resources: Additional Indexes
• Organ Music: Chorale Preludes
• The Concordia Organist
• Reviving the Introit
• What’s a Kantor?
• Helping Your Congregation Sing
• Fellowship & Church Musicians
• Gregorian Chant in Worship

Contact & Stay Connected

Find out all the ways to stay updated and how to contact me.  There’s something for everyone.

Opportunities for Exploration

• Looking for some other great blogs and websites?  Visit the Resources page.
• There are A LOT of blogs and posts out there.  When I find interesting posts related to worship or church music, I share them via my shared items feed at Google Reader.

Here is a photo of the pipe organ console I have the privilege of playing each week.  It is a 7-rank Moeller pipe organ that has been unified to the max.  It is on the small size for the sanctuary that it serves, but it is a very versatile instrument and leads singing quite well.