Directory | Chancel Notes | Bulletins | Social Calendar | Newsletters | Member Page | Home
   

Chancel Choir Email Update Archive ~ 2007:
October - December

 

Chancel Choir Update 12/27: News
Time Off For The Holiday
No Chancel Choir rehearsal tonight. No Chancel Choir in the loft on Sunday. Try the view from a pew this week.
Regular rehearsal resumes on Jan. 3.

Holiday Party Reservations Are Due
Reservations and money for the annual Chancel Choir holiday party on Jan. 12 are due to Alto Lois Hendrickson before Jan. 6. Mail your check to her at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost is $25 per person. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music.

Chancel Choir Update 12/21: News / Cares and Concerns
We sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.

Christmas Eve Schedule
The Chancel Choir sings for the 9 p.m. Christmas Eve service. Call time is 8:30 p.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: O Come, O Come Emmanuel and Climb to the Top of the Highest Mountain.

Holiday Party Reservations Are Due
If you plan to attend the Chancel Choir holiday party on Jan. 12, you'll need to pay Alto Lois Hendrickson on or before the Jan. 6 reservation deadline. Mail your check to her at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost is $25 per person. Joe wants anyone who feels like it to sing and play with the band at the part. Here is a link to the band's play list:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Decades%20Playlist%201107.pdf

Choir Sends $1,870 in Grocery Cards To Needy
Soprano Kristie Whitney reports that grocery gift cards totaling $1,870 were given to the Circle of Concern. The people there were thrilled to receive the cards and will distribute them to families in need this holiday. Circle of Concern thanks the Chancel Choir for it generosity.

Smiles for the Holiday
From the Chancel Choir email update smile department. Here are two links that will bring some holiday smiles. Click and enjoy:
www.thecompassgroup.biz/merryxmas.swf
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Fe11OlMiz8

Christmas Concert Photos
Photos of last Sunday's Christmas Concert accompanying this issue of the email update were taken by Chuck Gilpin.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Lois Hendrickson underwent surgery this morning to repair a torn rotator cuff in her shoulder sustained in an injury in August. The procedure went well and she will return home to recuperate later today.

Chancel Choir Update 12/17: Important News
Great Concert Last Night
Wow. What a great concert last night. A packed house, an excellent orchestra, a great sounding choir and soloists, a director with patience and a big smile, some good cake and Christmas spirit everywhere -- what more could you ask for? A digital recording was made of last night's concert and CDs will be available early next year. If you would like to reserve one, you can reply to this email or use the signup sheets at the next few rehearsals.

Rehearsal This Week for Next Sunday and Christmas Eve
There will be a regular rehearsal this Thursday night -- same time, same place.

Holiday Party Reservations Are Due
If you plan to attend the Chancel Choir holiday party on Jan. 12, you'll need to pay Alto Lois Hendrickson on or before the Jan. 3 reservation deadline. I recommend you mail your check to Lois early this week since she will undergo shoulder surgery on Friday. The address is: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost is $25 per person.

Joe wants anyone who feels like it to sing and play with the band at the part. Joe says: "Tell everyone they'll be welcome to be 'rock stars for a night' and sing or play with the band -- and to bring their instruments if its the latter." Here is a link to the band's play list:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Decades%20Playlist%201107.pdf

Chancel Choir Update 12/14: News / Cares and Concerns
It's Concert Weekend
Our big dress rehearsal will be Saturday afternoon from 3 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. The concert of course is Sunday evening beginning at 7:30 p.m. Kevin will announce a call time at rehearsal on Saturday. Remember no perfume, cologne, after shave or scented fabric softeners, please.

Chancel Choir On Sunday Morning
Chancel Choir sings for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services on Sunday morning. Call time, as usual, is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: The Virgin Mary Had a Baby Boy and Away In A Manger.

Holiday Party Reservations Are Due
If you plan to attend the Chancel Choir holiday party on Jan. 12, you'll need to pay Alto Lois Hendrickson on or before the Jan. 3 reservation deadline. You can also mail your check to Lois at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost is $25 per person.

Grocery Gift Cards For Circle of Concern
The Chancel Choir will contribute to the Circle of Concern for the Christmas holidays again this year. Instead of toys, this year choir members are being asked to provide gift cards to local grocery stores. These cards may be purchased at the stores or from the church's "Shopping for Our Dreams" program. If the cards are purchased through the church, five percent of the face value will be contributed to the church and you get a tax deduction. Where ever you obtain the cards, they need to be turned in to President Tim Zink.

Cares and Concerns
It's a seventh grand child for Soprano Jo Ann Jones. Durgin Charles Jones was born on Saturday, Dec. 8, in Toronto, Ontario. Parents, Kevin and Arden Jones, as well as his two sisters and one brother, are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 12/11: Important News / Cares and Concerns
Choir Rehearses With Orchestra Thursday Night
It's down to the wire. We'll rehearse with the orchestra on Thursday night. The choir should be in the loft ready to go at 7:30 p.m. The orchestra will be rehearsing when you arrive. Sit and listen for a while, but quietly move to the loft in time to begin at 7:30 p.m. All music should be loaded under the bands in your folder for rehearsal Thursday night. Please remove the brown music library envelopes from your folders. They hang out of the folder and can be seen by the audience. Please put only the concert music in your folders and place them under the bands. This rehearsal will be held despite any winter weather conditions. It's up to each singer to make a good personal decision about driving to the church this evening, keeping safety in mind. But, if you do make the trip you'll find a rehearsal when you get there.

Holiday Party Reservations Are Due
If you plan to attend the Chancel Choir holiday party on Jan. 12, you'll need to pay Alto Lois Hendrickson on or before the Jan. 3 reservation deadline. You can also mail your check to Lois at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost is $25 per person.

Grocery Gift Cards For Circle of Concern
The Chancel Choir will contribute to the Circle of Concern for the Christmas holidays again this year. Instead of toys, this year choir members are being asked to provide gift cards to local grocery stores. These cards may be purchased at the stores or from the church's "Shopping for Our Dreams" program. If the cards are purchased through the church, five percent of the face value will be contributed to the church and you get a tax deduction. Where ever you obtain the cards, they need to be turned in to President Tim Zink by this Thursday, Dec. 13.

Cares and Concerns
Paul Fredstrom, husband of Soprano Jan Fredstrom, will under coronary bypass surgery on Wednesday. He is a patient at St. Joseph's Hospital in Kirkwood.

Chancel Choir Update 12/9: Special Rehearsal Monday
To prepare us for our Christmas concert next Sunday, Kevin has called a special extra rehearsal on Monday night, (12/10) from 7:30 p.m to 9 p.m. This special rehearsal will be held despite any winter weather conditions. It's up to each singer to make a good personal decision about driving to the church this evening, keeping safety in mind. But, if you do make the trip you'll find rehearsal as usual when you get there.

Chancel Choir Update 12/7: News
Chancel Choir sings only for the 9 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: Hail to the Lord's Anointed. This is white gifts Sunday.

Grocery Gift Cards For Circle of Concern
The Chancel Choir will contribute to the Circle of Concern for the Christmas holidays again this year. Instead of toys, this year choir members are being asked to provide gift cards to local grocery stores. These cards may be purchased at the stores or from the church's "Shopping for Our Dreams" program. If the cards are purchased through the church, five percent of the face value will be contributed to the church and you get a tax deducation. Where ever you obtain the cards, they need to be turned in to President Tim Zink by Thursday, Dec. 13.

Washington Trip Deposit Number Three Due Now
The third deposit for the Washington, D.C. trip is due now. It's $100 per traveler and can be paid either to Treasurer Tom Lawrence or Asst. Treasurer Kathryn Cox.

Holiday Party Set For January 12
Mark your calendar for the the social event of the new year. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost will be $25 per person. You may turn your money in to Alto Lois Hendrickson any time. A deadline will be announced soon.

Chancel Choir Update 12/6: Rehearsal Tonight Despite Weather
Kevin has asked that the choir be notified that tonight's rehearsal will not be cancelled if winter weather conditions develop later today. With the Christmas concert just a week away, rehearsal will go on as scheduled. It's up to each singer to make a good personal decision about driving to the church this evening, keeping safety in mind. But, if you do make the trip you'll find rehearsal as usual when you get there. At 11:30 this morning the weather service's forcast discussion indicated that there is a possibility of sleet and freezing rain in the St. Louis area developing by late this afternoon or evening.

Chancel Choir Update 12/4: News / Cares and Concerns
Count Down To Classic Christmas Concert
We're days away from our big Classic Christmas concert. This week's rehearsal is the last before we rehearse with our 32-piece orchestra. So, your attendance this Thursday is very important.

Join The Metro Singers at Powell Hall
An invitation has been extended to any Chancel Choir singer to join the St. Louis Metro Singers for their annual Christmas concert with the Compton Heights Band at Powell Hall. You'll need to attend at least two Tuesday night rehearsals, the Thursday rehearsal at Powell Hall, and perform in at least one of the two concerts on Friday, Dec. 21. Tuesday rehearsals are held at the Southwest Baptist Church on Watson Road. Contact Kevin for more information. Here is the schedule:
Tuesday, 12/4 -- 7:30 to 9:30, rehearsal
Tuesday, 12/11, 7:30 to 9:30, rehearsal
Tuesday, 12/18, 7:30 to 9:30, rehearsal
Thursday, 12/20, 7 p.m., rehearsal at Powell Hall
Friday, 12/21, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., performances at Powell Hall

Washington Trip Deposit Number Three Due Thursday
The third deposit for the Washington, D.C. trip is due this Thursday, Dec. 6. It's $100 per traveler and can be paid either to Treasurer Tom Lawrence or Asst. Treasurer Kathryn Cox.

Holiday Party Set For January 12
Mark your calendar for the the social event of the new year. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost will be $25 per person. Details on reservations and tickets will be available soon. Alto Lois Hendrickson is in charge again this year.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Charlotte
and Tenor Richard Shelton are asking for prayers for their grandson, Tanner, along with parents Leigh and Joe, as they begin an intense three-week training program at the Judevine Center for Autism.

Chancel Choir Update 11/30: News / Cares and Concerns
The Green Will Go Up This Sunday
It's hanging of the green (notice I got it right this year -- no "s" on green). The choir will sing for both services -- 9 and 10:30. Call time is 8:30 in the Music Room. Anthem: Climb to the Top of the Highest Mountain.

Washington Trip Deposit Number Three
The third deposit for the Washington, D.C. trip is due next Thursday, Dec. 6. It's $100 per traveler and can be paid either to Treasurer Tom Lawrence or Asst. Treasurer Kathryn Cox.

Holiday Party Set For January 12
Mark your calendar for the the social event of the new year. The Chancel Choir's holiday party will be Saturday night, Jan.12 at Spazio's in Westport. Bass Joe Elstner's band, The Decades, will provide the music. There will be a great buffet dinner and a cash bar. Cost will be $25 per person. Details on reservations and tickets will be available soon. Alto Lois Hendrickson is in charge again this year.

Music Packet Number One Is Due
Most everyone has turned in their music packets. If you haven't, there is still time. But, you'll need to get it in as soon as possible.

Carolers Needed
If you like to sing and enjoy Christmas caroling, we've got a deal for you. This Saturday, the Chancel Choir will provide carolers for the Kids Christmas Festival at the church. We're looking for two groups of singers to carol between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. and between 10 a.m. and noon. Also, the choir will carol at the Christmas Tree Lot on Saturday, Dec. 16. Same deal, two groups at the times above. There's a signup in the Music Room for Dec. 16. If you'd like to sing this Saturday, show up and see Tenors Tim Zink or Chris Kennedy.

Cares and Concerns
It's a granddaughter for Tenor Chris and Soprano Mary Ann Kinder. Emelia Claire was born 11/25 to parents John and Becky Kinder. All is doing well, including big brother Owen.

Chancel Choir Update 11/27: News
Closing In On Christmas
There's only a couple of weeks before our Classic Christmas concert. That's why the next few rehearsals are so important. We'll see you Thursday night.

Fall Music Packets Are Due This Thursday
That first packet of music you got during retreat at the Touhill Center is due back to the librarians this Thursday. Here's a link to the list of music in the packet:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Music%20Packet%20Fall%2007%20-%20No.%201.doc

Singers Are Needed For Christmas Open House on Dec. 1
The Chancel Choir has agreed to provide some "roving" carolers for the children's Christmas event this Saturday, Dec. 1, from 8 a.m. until noon at the Church. We're looking for two groups of four to eight singers, one from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and one from 10 a.m. until noon. There will be a sign up sheet at rehearsal.

Singers Needed For Christmas Tree Lot
The Chancel Choir will sing Christmas carols at the Methodist Men's Christmas Tree Lot this Saturday morning, Dec. 1, and on Dec. 15. A few singers are needed for two shifts each week -- 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. and 10 a.m. until noon. There will be a sign up sheet at rehearsal.

Cookies For The Hospitality Committee Bake Sale
We're helping out the Hospitality Committee by providing cookies for its big bake sale this Sunday, Dec.2, from 8 a.m. until noon. If you're baking, bring your cookies either on Saturday or early Sunday morning. Cookies at the sale are sold in bulk and will be put out on plates, so no special packaging is necessary. The Hospitality Committee often serves receptions after our concerts.

Chancel Choir Update 11/19: Important News
Special Rehearsal Wednesday Night
There will be a special makeup rehearsal at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 2.

No Rehearsal on Thanksgiving
Thankfully there will be no rehearsal on Thanksgiving night this Thursday, Nov. 22. But, we do rehearse on Wednesday. See note above.

Chancel Choir Sings For Worship on Sunday, Nov. 25
It's regular worship duty on the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Call time 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: O Worship The King.

Fall Music Packet Is Due Nov. 29 - Here's The List
That first packet of music you got during retreat at the Touhill Center is due back to the librarians on Nov. 29. There's a link below to the list of music in the packet. Just print out the list (return lists will be included in future packets), check each piece, put them in the envelope and return the packet on the 29th. If you are going to be gone, turn it in early. Click on this link to get the list:
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Music%20Packet%20Fall%2007%20-%20No.%201.doc

Don't Miss This Year's Coventry Candlelight Christmas Dinner
It's one of our church's most popular holiday events. Tickets for this year's annual Coventry Christmas dinner/concerts are about gone. Dinners are on Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8. Excellent food and fine holiday music. Tickets are $25 and include an fine catered dinner. If you'd like tickets, contact Soprano Joy Parisien at joyparisien@gmail.com or 636-227-8655.

Singers Are Needed For Christmas Open House on Dec. 1
The Chancel Choir has agreed to provide some "roving" carolers for the children's Christmas event on Saturday, Dec. 1, from 8 a.m. until noon at the Church. We're looking for two groups of four to eight singers, one from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. and one from 10 a.m. until noon. Tenor Chris Kennedy is in charge. There will be a sign up at rehearsal on Wednesday.

Thanksgiving Dinner At Steak N' Shake Reveals Turkey Trivia
Our annual Thanksgiving dinners at Steak N' Shake in Manchester have become an event expected by the restaurant's staff. When the social director contacted the restaurant manager to make arrangements, he said our visit had already been discussed by the staff. Thirty of your Chancel Choir friends and family gathered at the restaurant Saturday night for a great meal, visiting, and some turkey trivia competition.

Each Thanksgiving dinner guest had a chance to answer a 20-question quiz about the turkey and compete for some lavish prizes. Melissa Larson was the grand prize winner with nine correct answers. There was a three way tie for second place. Joan Lemen won second place with eight correct answers. She broke the tie by more closely predicting at the start of the competition what her final score would be.

If you would like to challenge your family and friends on turkey day with the Chancel Choir Turkey Quiz, here's a link to a file with both the quiz and the answer sheet. Good luck.
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Turkey%20Trivia%2007.doc

Chancel Choir Update 11/16: News / Cares and Concerns
Choir Sings For One Service Only This Sunday
Chancel Choir will sign for the 10:30 a.m. worship service this Sunday, Nov. 18. Call time is 10 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: My Hope Is Built on Nothing Less

Special Make Up Rehearsal on Wednesday
We're not rehearsing on Thanksgiving, so there's a special make up rehearsal next Wednesday, Nov. 21, at 7:30 p.m.

Caroling at Christmas Tree Lot
The choir will provide Christmas carolers at the Men's Christmas Tree Lot again this year, probably starting on Saturday, Nov. 24. More details next week.

Washington Money Due Now
If you're on the list for the Washington, D.C., trip this spring, your second payment of $200 is due now. Please pay Treasurer Tom Lawrence as soon as possible.

Fall Follies Ticket Money Due
We'd like to close the books on the Fall Follies. If you are of the people who has not turned in your ticket money, we need it now. See Follies ticket sales manager Ann Garber.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Janet Love
has left the choir due to conflicting time commitments.

Chancel Choir Update 11/14: News / Cares and Concerns
See you at rehearsal this week. Same time, same place.

Last Call For Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak 'N' Shake
Last chance to signup for this tradition. Join us for the annual Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak N' Shake this Saturday, Nov. 17. We'll meet at 6:30 p.m. at the Steak N' Shake on Manchester Road near Mason Road for a turkey (or steakburgers) and pumpkin pie dinner. A signup sheet will be available at rehearsal this week.

Washington, D.C., Money Due Thursday Night
The November payment for the trip to Kennedy Center is due this week. Please pay assistant treasurer Kathryn Cox.

Help Out Hospitality
The church's Hospitality Committee is sponsoring its annual bake sale on Sunday, Dec. 2, from 8 a.m. to noon. Since the Hospitality Committee often serves our concert receptions, it has been suggested that we can help them out by baking a few dozen cookies for the sale. Just put them on a platter, no need for fancy boxes.

Christmas Card Appeal For Injured Soldiers Is A Hoax
Last week we sent out a note urging you to include an injured soldier on your Christmas card list. Although a great idea, we've learned that this an internet hoax. The Walter Reed Hospital does not want to receive cards addressed to a "recovering solder" and the post office will not accept them. For more details on the hoax and a statement from the hospital, check out this link:
http://www.snopes.com/politics/christmas/soldiercards.asp

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Margaret Webb
was scheduled to have surgery yesterday. No additional information is available.

Chancel Choir Update 11/12: News / Cares and Concerns
Fall Follies Photos
We've got some great photos of the Fall Follies. Photographers Joe McCormack and Chuck Gilpin captured virtually every moment of the show. Below is a link to a photo album containing 143 photos. The first shots of each act are from the Friday night rehearsal, followed by pictures taken during the performance. Just click the link (or copy it into your browser), then click on view pictures and then slideshow. Thank the photographers when you see them.
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AZMWbhs3aNmU-

Music Return List For Nov. 29 Deadline
Some of you replied to the last email update requesting that I publish a list of the music to be included in the fall music packet that is due Nov. 29. Others had suggestions or complaints about this year's music distribution system. The list of music pieces is included below at the conclusion of this email. I forwarded your suggestions to Kevin.

Cares and Concerns
Virginia Garber, mother of Sopranos Ann Garber and Wanda Oldani, is recovering from Saturday hip replacement surgery. She broke her hip in a fall while shopping on Friday. She remains hospitalized at St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield.

Chancel Choir – Fall 07 Music Packet No. 1
1. All Things Bright and Beautiful
2. All Things to All
3. Christians, We Have Met to Worship
4. Come, Christians, Join to Sing
5. Come, Let us Sing
6. Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
7. Her I Am, Lord
8. Holy, Holy, Holy
9. In This Very Room
10. Joy In The Morning
11. A Mighty Fortress
12. My Hope Is Built On Nothing Less
13. O Worship the King
14. Peace Like A River
15. Sing Out My Soul
16. Song of Celebration
17. Three Festive Calls to Worship
18. We Are Called

Chancel Choir Update 11/9: News / Cares and Concerns
We're in the loft with the Manchester Brass this Sunday for both services, as usual. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: Joy in the Morning. You may want to bring your commitment card and completed EMIM form to deposit in the basket as you take communion.

Last Call For Your Follies Ticket Money
If you are one of the dozen or so individuals who have not yet turning in your Fall Follies ticket money, get it in now. Soprano Ann Garber wants to close the books on the Follies tickets and we need to know how much money the event made for the choir. Bring that money in Sunday or Ann will come looking for you.

Special Rehearsal on Wednesday, Nov. 21
We've got Thanksgiving off, but we still need to rehearse that week. Kevin has scheduled a rehearsal at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 21.

Washington, D.C. Second Payment Is Due
The second advance payment of $200 for the trip to Washington, D.C. is now due to Treasurer Tom Lawrence.

Sign Up For Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak 'N' Shake
Join us for the annual Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak N' Shake Saturday, Nov. 17. We'll meet at 6:30 p.m. at the Steak N' Shake on Manchester Road near Mason Road for a turkey (or steakburgers) and pumpkin pie dinner. A signup sheet will be available at rehearsal this week.

Fall Music Packets Are Due Back Nov. 29
The fall music packet must be turned in on or before Nov. 29. A list of all the music in the packet is posted on the wall next to the music folder storage cabinet. I'd try to get it in on time -- I'm told the librarians can be dangerous if provoked.

Chancel Choir Update 11/7: Cares and Concerns
Boy In The Alto Section
It's a boy for Alto Lisa Null. Nathaniel Owen Null was born on Oct. 19. Address: 16544 Hunters Crossing Drive, Gover, MO 63040.

Prayers Asked for Henrietta Moser
This from Baritone Gary Moser:
I am asking for prayers for my mother, Henrietta Moser. Many of the choir members have met her when she has attended church and concerts. She lives in Ellisville at The Fountains of West County. Monday morning she underwent bypass surgery at St. Luke's Hospital for four arteries that are 90-100 percent blocked. She is in great spirits, but at 86 years old it will be a difficult ordeal. I would like our choir family to keep her in their prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 11/6: News
Classic Christmas Concert Just a Few Weeks Away
It will be grand and glorious. Traditional music and a big orchestra - for Christmas. Our Classic Christmas concert on Dec. 16 promises to bring all of the best of holiday music to the Sanctuary. That means there's just a few more rehearsals and Thursday night is one of them. We'll see you there.

Take The Chancel Choir's Christmas Music With You
How about some great background music for that holiday party or get together? Copies of the CD containing the best of the Chancel Choir's Christmas music are still available. It contains a collection of our best holiday concert numbers. The recordings are available again this year. Just reply to this email to order. They're $10 each.

Coventry Candlelight Christmas Dinner Tickets
It's one of our church's most popular holiday events. Tickets for the annual Coventry Christmas dinner/concerts went on sale last Sunday. This year the dinners are on Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8. Excellent food and fine holiday music. Tickets are $25 and include an fine catered dinner. If you'd like tickets, contact Soprano Joy Parisien at joyparisien@gmail.com or 636-227-8655.

Hear Our Own Stephanie Allee In Concert
This is your chance to hear a great concert of psalms, hymns and spiritual songs played by our own Stephanie Allee on piano with Gail Robins on organ, at 3 p.m. this Sunday, Nov. 11, at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, 5508 Telegraph Road. The concert will benefit pancreatic cancer research.

Chancel Choir Update 11/2: News / Cares and Concerns
Choir In The Loft On Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. worship services this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: Three Festive Calls to Worship and A Mighty Fortress.

Daylight Saving Time Ends This Sunday -- Fall Back
Don't forget to set your clocks back one hour before going to bed this Saturday night. Daylight saving time end this weekend.

New Accompanist/Organist Makes Debut
It was John Cargile's first night on the piano bench for the Chancel Choir. John just moved to St. Louis from Wichita, Kans., and is settling in to his new Mansion House apartment downtown with a great view of the Arch. He will make his worship debut this Sunday when he plays for all four traditional worship services. John is a native in Indiana and is a graduate of Ball State University. He has worked at churchs in Indiana, Georgia, Tennessee and, most recently, Plymouth Congregational Church in Wichita. In addition to his playing and accompanying, he will sing tenor in Coventry Choir. Alto Barb Farmer blows some bubbles in honor of John's debut.

Stephanie Allee Is Thanked For Working With Chancel Choir
Stephanie Allee stepped in to accompany the Chancel Choir for the past six months. Her last night with us on a regular basis was last week. The choir recognized her extra effort on its behalf with a angel figurine.

Looking For The Recipe
There's been a request for the recipe for the cranberry/raisin cookies brought to party night last night. If you are willing to share your recipe, please email it to garyford@fordcom.net and I'll pass it along.

Music Packet Return
The fall music packet is due back to the librarians no later than Nov. 29. If you'll be gone during that time, please turn it in early. A list of music the packet should contain is posted on the roster board next to the music folder storage area.

Music For Christmas
Last year, a CD containing a collection of the Chancel Choir's best Christmas music was produced. The recordings are available again this year. Just reply to this email to order. They're $10 each.

Fall Follies Wrap Up
Several photos of the Fall Follies are included with this email and all of the photos taken by Joe McCormack and Chuck Gilpin will be posted soon in an album for your enjoyment. The Follies has drawn many comments and we believe your display of raw talent was a big success. People have already begun planning their acts for the 2009 Follies. Thanks to everyone for your help and support. And thanks for the Applebee's gift card.

Cares and Concerns
It's a grandson for Soprano Carol Lembke. Johnathan Raymon Van Dyk arrived at 8:23 Monday in Katy, Texas and weighed in at 8 lbs., 2 oz. and was 20 and 3/4 inches long. Parents Simon and Laura are doing well.


Chancel Choir Update 10/31: News
It's back to Christmas music tomorrow night at rehearsal. See you there.

Fall Follies Wrap Up
Thanks to everyone for making this year's Fall Follies a big success. Although we don't have final figures yet, it appears the event netted about $5,000. Ticket money is due tomorrow night to Soprano Ann Garber. Put it in an envelope with your name and the amount written on the front.

Sign Up For Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak 'N' Shake
Once again, it's time for a Chancel Choir tradition. We'll have Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak N' Shake this Saturday, Nov. 17. Last year more than 40 joined us. We'll meet at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17 at the Steak N' Shake on Manchester Road near Mason Road for a turkey (or steakburgers) and pumpkin pie dinner. The social director is planning some special photography for the evening. A signup sheet will be available at rehearsal this week.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair
is making a speedy recovery from surgery Friday to remove her gallbladder. She went home later that day and was back to singing at Coventry Choir rehearsal Monday night.

Chancel Choir Update 10/26: News / Cares and Concerns
Fall Follies Tomorrow Night
It's show time -- Saturday night. The choir should be in the Music Room in their seats ready to rehearse no later than 7 p.m. Saturday night. After a few minutes of warm up, you'll go up stairs and sit in the pews on the main floor. You will be called to move quickly into the loft when the time comes. Remember, dress "fancy". The choir does not attend rehearse tonight (Friday).

No Chancel Choir In Worship Sunday
The choir will not sing this Sunday morning, but you can still attend church. It's youth Sunday.

Ticket Money Due To Ann Garber
Money for the tickets you sold is due to Soprano Ann Garber no later than this Thursday, Nov. 1. Put it in an envelope with your name on it so you'll get credit.

Join Your Choir Friends For Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak 'N' Shake
Once again, it's time for a Chancel Choir tradition. We'll have Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak N' Shake this Saturday, Nov. 18. Last year more than 40 joined us. We'll meet at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 18 at the Steak N' Shake on Manchester Road near Mason Road for a turkey (or steakburgers) and pumpkin pie dinner. The social director is planning some special photography for the evening. A signup sheet will be available next week.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair
will undergo surgery to remove her gall bladder this morning (10/26) at St. John's Mercy Medical Center.

Chancel Choir Update 10/24: News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal Thursday Night
It's Fall Follies week and we'll rehearse the choir's part of the show, as well as our Christmas concert music, at Chancel Choir rehearsal tomorrow night, . It's important that you be there. The choir will not rehearse the Follies on Friday night.

Fall Follies Rehearsal Friday
Cast and crew of the Fall Follies will rehearse the show in the Sanctuary on Friday beginning at 7:00 p.m. Talent acts should be ready to go at 7 p.m. Persons in comedy skits should report at 6:30 to review their acts and the logistics of their performance. The Chancel Choir will not rehearse Friday night.

Volunteers Needed To Greet Before Nov. 4 Worship Services
Last year, the Chancel Choir provided greeters to meet people as they arrive for worship on Sunday mornings. We're doing that again this year and we need some volunteers. Tenor Chris Kennedy needs three volunteers to help him greet before both the 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services on Nov. 4. A sign up sheet will be available tomorrow night.

Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak 'N' Shake
Once again, it's time for a Chancel Choir tradition. We'll have Thanksgiving Dinner at Steak N' Shake on Saturday, Nov. 17. Last year more than 40 joined us. We'll meet at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 17 at the Steak N' Shake on Manchester Road near Mason Road for a turkey (or steakburgers) and pumpkin pie dinner. So mark your calendar.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair
will undergo surgery Friday to remove her gall bladder.

Chancel Choir Update 10/19: News
Music Ministry Dedication This Sunday
Ever wonder what it would be like to have all of our church musicians perform at the same time? You'll see them this Sunday. More than 350 Music Ministry participants will be in the chancel singing. We want a good representation for the Chancel Choir at both services. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthem: Come With Singing and Come, Christians, Join to Sing.

Fall Follies Rehearsals
We're headed into the home stretch for the Fall Follies. The Chancel Choir will rehearse for the show during regular rehearsal next Thursday night. Performers and cast members will rehearse the show at 7 p.m., Friday, Oct. 26. Individual acts may rehearse with Justin Smolik, our accompanist, on Sunday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights this week. Sign up for a slot in the Music Room.

Sell Those Tickets
If you haven't picked up your allotment of five Fall Follies tickets, check with Soprano Ann Garber this Sunday. Tickets not sold must be turned in next Thursday night, Oct. 25. Ticket money is due by Thursday, Nov. 1. Put your money in an envelope with your name on the outside and give to Ann.

Special Thanksgiving Holiday Rehearsal
There will be a special holiday makeup rehearsal at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 21. Kevin feels it would not be wise to go two weeks without rehearsing our Christmas concert material. So, if you are in town the night before Thanksgiving, stop by for rehearsal.

Chancel Choir Update 10/17: News / Cares and Concerns
Join us for rehearsal tomorrow night. This Sunday is Music Ministry Dedication. We'll work on music for that and the talent show. See you there.

Fall Follies Tickets
Don't forget to pick up the five tickets with your name on them from Soprano Ann Garber tomorrow night. Money won't be required until after the concert, however you can turn in money early in an envelope with your name on it. The Day of Grace for unsold tickets to be turned in is next Thursday, Oct. 25. Ann still needs help selling tickets in the Narthex between services this Sunday. The shifts are 8:30 to 9, 9:30 to 10:30 and 11:30 to noon. You may reach her at: Elizabeth.A.Garber@nga.mil

Cares and Concerns
This note from Soprano Karen Fair:
"Ernie and I wish to thank everyone for the flowers, cards and many phone calls during my recent hospitalization. I was released on Oct. 13 and have been recuperating at home since then. Each day brings more strength and healing. I am scheduled for gall bladder surgery on Friday, Oct. 26. For now I will try to go back to work until then. Hope to see you all soon. I miss you and appreciate my church family and all that you do for us through your prayers and continued support."

Chancel Choir Update 10/12: News / Cares and Concerns
In The Loft On Sunday
We will sing for 9 and 10:30 worship services this Sunday. Call time: 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: Christians, We Have Met to Worship and The Church's One Foundation.

Fall Follies Tickets Available
Pick up your Fall Follies tickets from Soprano Ann Garber this Sunday. Each choir member is expected to sell five tickets for the show.

Fall Follies Acts
Talent Show accompanist Justin Smolik is available to practice with those acts needing a pianist. He is available on Wednesday and Sunday evenings. A signup sheet is in the Music Room.

Say Goodbye
Tenor Joe Kingsbury
told the choir last night he has accepted a promotion and will move in the next two weeks to Palm Springs, Calif. Joe works for Westfield Shopping Malls. His new job will be in Palm Desert, Calif. In addition to singing, Joe has been our drummer since he was in high school and is a recipient of the Chancel Choir scholarship. We wish Joe well in sunny CA.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair
remains hospitalized in Barnes West Hospital where she is undergoing treatment for a blocked bile duct and other gastric problems. She may return home this weekend.

Chancel Choir Update 10/10: News / Cares and Concerns
It's back to rehearsal tomorrow night. We'll see you there.

Music Ministry Outreach Sunday Postponed
Our Sunday morning worship outreach to three other churches originally set for this Sunday has been postponed until after the holidays.

Classic Rock Live Friday Night
Bass Joe Elstne
r reports his band, The Decades, (they played at our last holiday party) will be on stage this Friday night at Here's Johnny's in O'Fallon, Mo. from 8:45 until 12:45. From westbound highway 40, take the Wing Haven exit and go north three miles. Once you cross Mexico Road, it's in a strip mall on your left. He says there's plenty of parking and good food.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Karen Fair
remains in Barnes West Hospital undergoing treatment for a blocked bile duct.

Chancel Choir Update 10/8: Cares and Concerns
We are saddened to report the death of Vicki Rains, 66, sister of Bass Buddy Rains. Buddy reports that he learned Sunday that she had died a couple of weeks earlier and several weeks after being found at her home in New Orleans. Buddy and his wife left for New Orleans early this morning and no additional information was available. Her ashes will be spread in New Orleans in a private service. Buddy asks for your thoughts and prayers.

Soprano Karen Fair remains hospitalized at Barnes West Hospital for tests and evaluation for sever stomach pain. She reports that tests over the weekend ruled out gallstones.

Chancel Choir Update 10/5: News
Chancel Choir sings for both services this Sunday. Call time is 8:30 a.m. in the Music Room. Anthems: Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah and In This Very Room.

Music Ministry Outreach Sunday Postponed
Our Sunday morning worship outreach to three other churches originally set for Oct. 14 has been postponed until after the holidays. Kevin explained that during the interim period until a new organist is on the job, it would be difficult for him to be gone on Sunday morning.

New Organist Is Hired
John Cargile, of Wichita, Kan., will join the church staff as its Organist/Music Associate. John, who was our third candidate to audition, won the unanimous support of the Search Team. In addition to being a very talented musician, John is a ministry-minded individual with a real gift for interacting with people. John is a native of Indiana with over 20 years of experience. He will move to St. Louis later this month and will begin work on Nov. 1.

Cares and Concerns
This from Bass Buddy Raines:
Hazel and I appreciate the flowers, in addition to all the cards and prayers after her mother's death. The response from the choir is always overwhelming and something I have trouble putting into words. The Chancel Choir is a family with heavenly powers that heals us in times of illness and comforts us in times of loss. Hazel is planning a family reunion in Massachusetts in November honoring her mom.
Much love to each of you,
Buddy and Hazel


Chancel Choir Update 10/1: News You Can Use
What A Retreat; What A Weekend

We sang, we ate, we laughed and we learned. That's the summary of this year's edition of the annual Chancel Choir retreat. We ventured to the Touhill Center this year which turned out to be one of the best spaces for singing the choir has experienced. If you weren't able to join us or want to relive the memory, here's a brief summary and link to photos. We gathered Friday night in Old Fellowship Hall for snacks and old videos. We saw our appearance in the 2001 St. Louis Thanksgiving Day Parade, our concert at the Sheldon in 1998, the Seven Last Words performed in the old Sanctuary, among others. People looked different then, more hair on some, a little less gray, but many people look just the same attesting to the power of music on the body.

At 7, we adjourned to the Music Room where Kevin had assigned seating at random. What was billed as a 10-minute presentation about leaving an Endowment Gift to the music program turned into a 40-minute elementary school style game to "teach" us the 20 methods of leaving a legacy gift. A worthy topic, but an unfortunate and painfully long presentation by the guest speaker left many in the choir fuming and gave us a 30-minute late start on reviewing Christmas music for our holiday concert. A bright fall day greeted us as we arrived at the Touhill Center's Metro Stage Door on Saturday morning. The beautiful theater provided a perfect space to rehearse. Choir members took a tour of the center's smaller Lee Theater before we got started. A day of rehearsal followed. Music for the Fall Follies, worship services and our Christmas concert was introduced. Lunch was on your own and resulted in a scramble for restaurant space. Some ate at nearby fast food restaurants and a barbecue buffet that boasted Crispy Snoots on a sign out front. Others ventured further away and found a community festival in Ferguson complete with food booths.

On Friday night, Tenor Joe Kingsbury offered a tradition to the choir in which a T-shirt with Kevin's high school graduation photo printed on it is worn as a surprise to various church events. The shirt made an appearance at Saturday's rehearsal thanks to Bass Larry Shepard. Attendance this year: 91 Friday night, 90 Saturday morning, 77 Saturday afternoon, and less as the day wore on. Here's a like to a photo album of retreat photos:
http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8AZMWbhs3aNmUv

Fall Follies: Original Amateur Hour
A second "preview" audition session for the talent show was held last night. We have some really impressive acts, but we still need more. It's our only fund raiser of the year and we'd like you to help out. If performing isn't your thing, there will be sign up sheets at this week's rehearsal for back stage help, ushers, ticket takers and greeters. Each choir member will receive five tickets to sell this year. Remember, the entire Chancel Choir will sing during the talent show, so be sure Saturday night, Oct. 27 is on your calendar.

We'll see you at rehearsal on Thursday night.