Hymn Festivals in Tampa, Savannah

Grace Lutheran Church, Carrolwood, Fl (Tampa), Ascension Lutheran, Savannah, GA.

These are important. Hardworking, diligent and extremely faithful church musicians set them up. Eager for a "shot in the arm of the cause" they go through a tremendous amount of work and emotion to set up these events - and people always respond. The hosts usually wish more would attend, but I'm thrilled with a choir, and four-parts in the pews regardless of whether it's 20 or 2,000 people. Always those who attend are teary-eyed appreciative. That speaks to the starvation in the church these days - people who cherish memory represented in their hymns of faith are being denied. Those who come love God and love to sing about it. The choirs have fun with different leadership (even if I ask for the same things as their regular director). I feel empowered by my home experiences and Mount Olive traditions, and my unique journey and which helps me feel free to push the edges - and they respond all the more.

These two hymn festivals have a special connection (although this is not unusual in my travels) - Paul Manz had dedicated both instruments with hymn festivals in he 1980's. For Tampa it was as though it was yesterday. Paul returned to Tampa for a 10th year anniversary hymn festival, and my visit marked 20 years. All three events are seared in their experiencial/spiritual memory. Witnessing the long-term impact of Paul Manz's vast ministry puts both joy in my heart, as well as sends a chill down my spine: I must take these calls to responsibility seriously! It's an honor, joy and huge responsibility to be among those who continue what Mount Olive and Dr. Manz began in such a profound and abundant way. There can be no "second Paul Manz" but once that cart is rolling, there are those of us who are called nudge it further to keep the experiences growing and moving!

I am grateful that Mount Olive continues to support these efforts (even as these trips create an inconvenient absence from Mount Olive at times). They are water for thirsty lovers og God through hymnody, boosts for hard working, diligent and faithful church musicians and pastors eager to keep this tradition alive, and give witness to the living Spirit of God in these communities. Too many faith communities are trying to deny their song memory - the good news is it refuses to disappear. These events help. They are important.