On Sunday, June 16 at the Second Congregational Church, UCC in Newcastle, the 10 a.m. worship service will feature every aspect of the church’s music ministry. This is an occasion to recognize the importance of the music ministry, its leadership, and the many volunteers who passionately share their musical gifts.

The pre-service music begins at 9:45 a.m. with the Tower Ringers, a group of 11 ringers who play a 4 ½ octave set of English handbells and 3 octave set of hand chimes. Their selections will include “Simple Gifts,” “The Rainbow Connection” and “What a Wonderful World.” These arrangements speak of the wonders of creation and relationship, incorporating the secular into the sacred.

The Chancel Choir, which is the primary choral group of the church, will sing two settings of “Alleluia!” and an arrangement of “When the Morning Stars Together” by John Ferguson. “An Appalachian Lord’s Prayer” will be introduced by contralto Sarah Highland. Organ, keyboard, and timpani will accompany the congregation as they join with the choir in singing several hymns throughout the morning.

The service will end with a grand setting of the hymn, “When in Our Music God is Glorified” arranged for handbells, organ, timpani, trumpet, choir, and congregation. Jane Wilmot, the minister of music and organist, will be assisted by Peter Asche at the keyboard and organ, and Quinn Gormley playing timpani.

All are welcome to join us for 10 a.m. worship and fellowship on this very special day in the life of this congregation.