Worship Treasures: Past and Present
Each week as I prepare for the upcoming worship services, I’m continually reminded of the rich worship and musical heritage we have in Christendom and Lutheranism. Yet, do we appreciate and understand this treasure?
J.S. Bach: Kantor for Today
Today the church commemorates Kantor Johann Sebastian Bach, a gifted musician and servant of the church. Because of his combined musical creativity and fidelity to Christ, he has become known as the Fifth Evangelist.
Kantor Resch, in an essay in the first journal of the Good Shepherd Institute (which by the way is available as a complimentary download), mentions that Bach’s “unbelievable source of faithful confession, of teaching and admonishing, of prayer, of praise and thanksgiving, and of healing and comfort–has become a hidden treasure.”
Higher Hymnody: The Gifts Christ Freely Gives
Here’s a good article by Jonathon Kohlmeier over at Higher Things on hymnody. In particular, he takes a look at Kantor Richard Resch’s hymn “The Gifts Christ Freely Gives” (LSB 602) and comments on the gifts we receive in the Divine Service. Thanks Jonathon!
Lutheran Hymnody Makes the Evening News
How often do you hear Lutheran hymnody on television? Not often. How often does it make the evening news? Almost never . . . that is until “Singing the Faith: Living the Lutheran Liturgical Heritage” was produced by the Good Shepherd Institute.
Dare to Be A Lutheran Choir
What are the characteristics of a Lutheran choir? Find out in this article Kantor Richard Resch wrote for Higher Things entitled Encouraging Your Choir . . . Dare to Be Lutheran.
Difficult Hymns That Are Not Difficult
Difficult hymns don’t have to remain difficult. By a careful and deliberate plan, difficult hymns can become beloved and familiar.
Singing the Faith – Living the Lutheran Musical Heritage
When I was back at Concordia Theological Seminary this last summer for an Organist Workshop, Kantor Richard Resch mentioned that the Good Shepherd Institute was working on a DVD with teaching guide that explores our rich Lutheran musical heritage. I could tell Kantor Resch was excited and passionate about this project.
Invitation to Sing
Kantor Resch refers to the hymn introduction as an “Invitation to Sing.” If the introduction is “blah”, the singing will be “blah” as well. The “invitation” by the organist gives a foretaste of what is to come. One of the primary responsibilities of the organist is to engage God’s people in song.
Share your thoughts . . .