Chancel Choir Update 3/31: Cares and Concerns
It is with sadness that we report the death of Rose Biolchini, mother-in-law of Donna Biolchini. She died this morning (3/31) in Oglesby, Ill. The visitation and funeral are on Saturday in Oglesby. Donna asks that we keep Paul Biolchini and the family in your prayers.

Bass John Frederiksen is a grandfather. Tala McKinley Green was born last Thursday (3/25). Parents are Susan and Brian Green. Tala weighed in at 6 lb., 11 oz, and 19 inches. Everyone is healthy and well.

Chancel Choir Update 3/30: Important News
Rehearsal At 8:30 p.m. Thursday
The final rehearsal for the Seven Last Words concert will be at 8:30 p.m. Thursday immediately following the Maundy Thursday service in the Sanctuary. It is important that you be at this final rehearsal if you are singing in the concert on Friday night. April "party night" has been postponed until later in the month.

After Choir
Join us after rehearsal this Thursday at The Corner Pub & Grill at Daugherty Ferry and Big Bend Road. Refreshments and conversation after choir at After Choir.

Friday Night Concert
The Seven Last Words will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday evening. Call time for the choir is 6:30 p.m. Be in your seats ready to warm up at 6:30. Also please, please leave the perfume, cologne and aftershave off for both the rehearsal and concert. We will wear robes.

Saturday Rehearsal For Easter
The Chancel Choir will rehearse Saturday morning for Easter Sunday worship services. The rehearsal in the Sanctuary with brass will begin at 11 a.m. and wrap up by 12:30.

Choir Sings For Two Services on Easter Sunday
The Chancel Choir will sing for both the 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. worship services this Sunday -- Easter Sunday. Note the different start times. Call time is 30 minutes before each service. We need everyone to participate in both services.

No Rehearsal on April 9
The choir will not rehearse on Thursday, April 9.

Concert Recording
The Seven Last Words will be recorded. A sign up for the concert recording will be available. You may also reply to this email update if you would like a CD.

Mission Auction Reservations
Although a Mission Auction table will not be set up in the Narthex on Easter Sunday, you can still make a reservation by calling Judi Shepard at 636-458-0087 or by visiting the reservation table on Sunday, April 11. Tables at the auction will hold up to 12 people. The cost is $35 per person and the entrée choices are beef or salmon.

13 Movie Night Baskets Donated To Auction
One thing about Chancel Choir members -- ask them for something and you get it. Choir officers decided to participate in this year's Mission Auction by donating four movie themed baskets. A call to choir members to bring goodies, DVDs and other movie items resulted in enough stuff to make 13 baskets. Vice President Diane Lawrence and Outreach Chair Charlotte Moser prepared the baskets.

Chancel Choir Update 3/26: News
It's Palm Sunday. We sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service. Call time is 10:20. Anthems: Prepare Ye The Way and Ain't Got Time To Die.

Concert Rehearsal Sunday Night
We're rehearsing the Seven Last Words with soloists and instrumentalists this Sunday evening at 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary. It is important that you be there if you are singing in the concert on Good Friday.

The Schedule
Holy week this year is going to be very busy for the choir. Here's the schedule:
Palm Sunday, March 28, 10:50 -- Sing for worship
Palm Sunday, March 28, 7:30 p.m. -- Rehearsal No. 1 - Seven Last Words concert
Maundy Thursday, April 1, 8:30 p.m. -- Rehearsal No. 2 - Seven Last Words concert
Good Friday, April 2, 7 p.m. -- Lenten Concert: Seven Last Words
Saturday, April 3, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. -- Easter rehearsal
Easter Sunday, April 4 -- Chancel Choir sings at 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.
Thursday, April 9 -- No Chancel Choir Rehearsal

Chancel Choir Update 3/24: Concert Poster
An electronic file of our Seven Last Words poster in PDF format is available on the main church web site at the link below. Click on the link or paste it in your browser to open and print the poster.

http://www.manchesterumc.org/downloads/sevenlastwordssmall.pdf

Chancel Choir Update 3/23: News
We have one more rehearsal or the Seven Last Words before we practice with the orchestra. Thursday night is very important. See you there.

After Choir
Join us after choir at Krieger's at Highway 141 and Big Bend Road. Refreshments and conversation after choir at After Choir.

Buckle Your Easter Seat Belts
Holy week this year is going to be very busy for the choir. Here's the schedule:
Palm Sunday, March 28, 10:50 -- Sing for worship
Palm Sunday, March 28, 7:30 p.m. -- Rehearsal No. 1 - Seven Last Words concert
Maundy Thursday, April 1, 8:30 p.m. -- Rehearsal No. 2 - Seven Last Words concert
Good Friday, April 2, 7 p.m. -- Lenten Concert: Seven Last Words
Saturday, April 3, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. -- Easter rehearsal
Easter Sunday, April 4 -- Chancel Choir sings at 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.
Thursday, April 9 -- No Chancel Choir Rehearsal

Centenary Cupboard Is Almost Bare
Charlotte Moser, the choir's community outreach director, reports that the cupboard in the kitchen at Centenary UMC was almost bare when she was there last week. Even though we've donated more than 600 cans of food since January, serving hundreds of meals each day uses lots of food. Charlotte is posting our April donation menu early and hoping everyone can pitch in and bring some food to rehearsal. Here are the food selections for April: Bottled salad dressing (any kind), canned green beans, canned green peas.

Mission Auction Reservations
If you are attending this year's Mission Auction on April 16, you'll need a reservation. Cost this year is $35 per person. Tables seating twelve are available. A reservation table will be available in the Narthex on Sundays.

Note To Fellow Singers
As we enter the concert rehearsal and performance season, please respect your fellow singers and not wear cologne and perfume. There are several of us in the choir who react quickly to some fragrances. We all have a good laugh when I and others let out a big sneeze. But reaction to perfume can keep people from singing on Sundays and at concerts. Last year rather than sing, I spent most of a concert trying to avoid sneezing. For others, throats just fill up and singing is impossible. These folks have rehearsed as much as the rest of us and deserve an opportunity to enjoy the performance too. So, please no cologne or perfume.

Chancel Choir Update 3/19: News
Chancel Choir will sing at the 10:50 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10:20.

Choir Food Donations Reach 600 Cans
So far this year, we've supplied more than 600 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church. During March and April, our donations will be matched by the Feinstein Foundation.

Mission Auction Reservations
If you are attending this year's Mission Auction on April 16, you'll need a reservation. Cost this year is $35 per person. Tables seating eight are available. A reservation table will be available in the Narthex on Sundays.

Chancel Choir Update 3/17: News
Rehearsal this Thursday. See you there

After Choir
Join us after choir at Duffy's at Highway 141 and Clayton Road. Refreshments and conversation after choir at After Choir.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
So far this year, we've supplied 600 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Chancel Choir Update 3/12: News
Chancel Choir will sing at the 10:50 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10:20.

Daylight Saving Time This Week
Remember to set your clocks forward (ahead) one hour when you go to sleep Saturday night or you'll show up an hour early on Sunday. It's Daylight Saving Time and that means it's spring.

Sunday Is Absolute Deadline For Mission Auction Movie Baskets
The choir will provide some baskets for the Mission Auction silent auction on April 16. The baskets will have a movie theme. Choir members are asked to bring items related to seeing movies -- DVDs, (don't need anymore pop corn), candies, theater gift cards, etc. etc. These items must be turned in this Sunday, March 14.

Choir Food Donations Reach 600 Cans
So far this year, we've supplied more than 600 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Buckle Your Easter Seat Belts
Holy week this year is going to be very busy for the choir. Here's the schedule:
Palm Sunday, March 28, 10:50 -- Sing for worship
Palm Sunday, March 28, 7:30 p.m. -- Rehearsal No. 1 - Seven Last Words concert
Maundy Thursday, April 1, 8:30 p.m. -- Rehearsal No. 2 - Seven Last Words concert
Good Friday, April 2, 7 p.m. -- Lenten Concert: Seven Last Words
Saturday, April 3, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. -- Easter rehearsal
Easter Sunday, April 4 -- Chancel Choir sings at 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.

Mission Auction Reservations
If you are attending this year's Mission Auction on April 16, you'll need a reservation. Cost this year is $35 per person. Tables seating eight are available. A reservation table will be available in the Narthex on Sundays.

Chancel Choir Officers Meeting
Choir officers met last night. Here is a quick summary of the business discussed.
-- More than 600 cans of food have been delivered to Centenary since January. The March crew to work in the kitchen is full. A board will be put in the choir room listing members who have worked at Centenary for the 2011 challenge.
-- Singups for the April 25 senior center community outreach will begin after Easter. The choir will sing at four locations at 2 p.m. on Sunday, April 25. Lunch will be served in Fellowship Hall to the choir before we depart for the centers.
-- Seven seniors qualify to apply for this year's Chancel Choir scholarship. Letters have been sent to them asking that they apply. Vice President Diane Lawrence will conduct the scholarship selection process this year.
-- Comments from choir members about the holiday party were reviewed. About a dozen reply were received and expressed mixed reviews on the current holiday party format. Several options for complete changing the holiday party and social events for the choir were discussed including an annual awards banquet, a formal program, a dinner on Thursday night instead of rehearsal, and many others. Kevin will form a committee consisting of the section managers to look into options for next year.

Chancel Choir Update 3/9: News
Rehearsal this Thursday. See you there

After Choir
Join us after choir at Mulligan's at northeast corner of Manchester and Clarkson roads. Refreshments and conversation after choir at After Choir.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
So far this year, we've supplied 350 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Mission Auction Reservations
If you are attending this year's Mission Auction on April 16, you'll need a reservation. Cost this year is $35 per person. Tables seating eight are available. A reservation table will be available in the Narthex on Sundays.

Chancel Choir Update 3/5: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will not sing for worship this Sunday. Come and hear the Children's Musical at either worship services or at 3 p.m. Sunday. You'll see Tenor Chris Kennedy playing the king.

Last Call For Holiday Party Comments
The president of the Chancel Choir wants to hear your opinion of this year's holiday party. Do you like it the way it is? Do you want to see something different? Suggestions? Did you attend? If not, how come? If you'd like to share your thoughts, email them this week to Donna Biolchini at biolchdk@webster.edu

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
So far this year, we've supplied 350 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

MUMC At Theater To See Ben Nordstrom
The Drama Ministry is sponsoring an MUMC a trip to the theater at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 21, to see Ben Nordstrom and Steve Isom in the hilarious comedy “Gutenberg! The Musical!” To reserve seats, call the Ivory Theater at 314-631-8330 and tell her you are with the MUMC group or leave a message. You will pay for the tickets at the theater. Tickets are $16.

They're Looking For People To Help
MUMC’s Faith in Action steering committee is looking for suggestions of individuals or agencies that might benefit from our services on Sunday, May 2. If any choir members are aware of elderly neighbors in our community or members of our congregation who could use help with raking, mowing, planting, trimming shrubs, cleaning gutters, painting, power-washing patios, cleaning out garage, or any other myriad of projects that homeowners need to do in the early spring, please let us know. We are also looking for agencies that might benefit from our services (outside of those agencies that we typically serve) who have needs that MUMC can address. If you have suggestions, please email details to Dan Dorrance at DDorrance@Hunter.COM We are also looking for people willing to be “project leaders” that day to help coordinate the services we’ll be providing at various sites. We’re counting on every member of Chancel Choir to be part of the 2,000 people serving our community on May 2.

Cares and Concerns
A celebration of life service for Martha Waller, mother of Sue Belval, mother-in-law of Bass Jim Belval, and grandmother of Bass Andy Belval will be held at 1 p.m., this Saturday(3/6), in the MUMC Sanctuary with a tea to follow at 2 p.m. in Fellowship Hall. She died Sunday (2/28) at her home in Kirkwood at the age of 95. The family suggests donations to the MUMC music program in lieu of flowers.

Chancel Choir Update 2/28: Death In Choir Family
It is with sadness that we report the death of Martha Waller, mother of Soprano Sue Belval, mother-in-law of Bass Jim Belval and grandmother of Bass Andy Belval. She died at 7:15 a.m. today at her home in Kirkwood at the age of 95. Arrangements for a memorial service are pending.

Chancel Choir Update 2/26: News
Chancel Choir will sing for worship this Sunday at 10:50 a.m Call time is 10:20 a.m. in the Music Room.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
So far this year, we've supplied 350 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

March 4 Deadline For Mission Auction Baskets
The choir will provide some baskets for the Mission Auction silent auction on April 16. The baskets will have a movie theme. Choir members are asked to bring items related to seeing movies -- DVDs, pop corn, candies, theater gift cards, etc. etc. These items must be turned in by March 4. The items will be assembled and volunteers will make the baskets. The Mission Auction silent auction will consist of baskets this year.

Chancel Choir Update 2/24: Cares and Concerns
It's another grandchild for Soprano Sue and Baritone Larry Woolweaver. Evan Harris Gray arrived in Dallas this morning weighing in at 8 lbs., 3 oz. and 20 inches long. Parents Heather and Cole are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 2/23: News
Rehearsal this Thursday at the usual time and place.

After Choir
Join us at The Corner Pub & Grill, Daugherty Ferry and Big Bend, for refreshment and conversation after choir for After Choir.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
So far this year, we've supplied 350 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

March 4 Deadline For Mission Auction Baskets
The choir will provide some baskets for the Mission Auction silent auction on April 16. The baskets will have a movie theme. Choir members are asked to bring items related to seeing movies -- DVDs, pop corn, candies, theater gift cards, etc. etc. These items must be turned in by March 4. The items will be assembled and volunteers will make the baskets. The Mission Auction silent auction will consist of baskets this year.

MUMC Night At Theater To See Ben Nordstrom
The Drama Ministry is sponsoring an MUMC night at the theater on Sunday, March 21, to see Ben Nordstrom and Steve Isom in the comedy “Gutenberg! The Musical!” There are 200 seats in the Ivory Theater, so they will go fast. Members of the Drama Ministry, One Voice and Chancel Choir will get first crack at the tickets this week, then they will be offered to the full congregation this Sunday. To reserve seats, call Donna Perrino at the Ivory Theater at 314-631-8330 and tell her you are with the MUMC group or leave a message. You will pay for the tickets at the theater. We get a special group rate of $16. Meanwhile, check the attached file for complete details.

Wonderful Concert
If you missed the concert Sunday night in our Sanctuary featuring the Webster University choir and orchestra, you really missed one of the best concerts I've seen in a long time. Both the Mendelssohn Reformation Symphony and especially the Jenkins Mass for Peace were outstanding. If you were discouraged by the length of the Mass for Peace, it was so good I actually wish it had run longer. Kevin says it may be in our future.

Chancel Choir Update 2/19: News
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service on Sunday. Anthem: Ah, Holy Jesus. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
So far this year, we've supplied 350 cans of food to the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During March bring any kind of canned fruit or pork & beans/baked beans. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Mission Auction Baskets
The choir will provide some baskets for the Mission Auction silent auction on April 16. The baskets will have a movie theme. Choir members are asked to bring items related to seeing movies -- DVDs, pop corn, candies, theater gift cards, etc. etc. These items must be turned in by March 4. The items will be assembled and volunteers will make the baskets. The Mission Auction silent auction will consist of baskets this year.

Holiday Party Ideas
We're looking for your thoughts on the choir's holiday parties. In the next few months, choir officers will be reviewing the party and exploring potential new ideas if the current format is unliked. Only a third of the choir participated this year. We'd like to know why. If you did attend, did you like it? Are there other locations you'd suggest for the party? Other formats? Other entertainment? Share your thoughts with choir president Donna Biolchini at: biolchdk@webster.edu We'd like to hear from as many people as possible as soon as possible.

Singing At Senior Centers
Mark the afternoon of April 25 on your calendar. We will divide into four choirs and sing at four nearby senior centers. Kevin will announce details in the next couple of weeks.

Choir Scholarship
Work is underway to select a recipient for this year's Chancel Choir Youth Scholarship. The vice president traditionally chairs that process. This year vp/president elect Diane Lawrence will be contacting eligible high school seniors asking them to apply.

Chancel Choir Officers
The choir officers met last night before rehearsal. Here's a summary of their meeting.
-- Heard a report on our monthly volunteer work in the Centenary meal program and the canned food drive. We have provided 350 cans of food since the first of the year.
-- Discussed the holiday party. The food and music this year were a big hit, however attendance was low. True cost of the event was about $36 per person and ticket prices were raised to $28 this year resulting in a smaller subsidy from the choir's activity fund. It was decided to explore other ideas and ask choir members to offer suggestions by email to the president. A review of ideas and a decision on where and when next year's party will be will be made in the next few months to assure we get the date we want.
-- Discussed the senior center singing outreach on April 25. Lunch will be served to the choir following worship before we break into four choirs and go to the centers at 2 p.m. Details and signup sheets will be provided to the choir in the next few weeks.
-- Reviewed the process for granting the Chancel Choir scholarship. Agreed that a simple procedure for current scholarship recipients to renew their grant for a succeeding year would be put in place. Last year's recipient will be asked to prove she is continuing in college before the second of the four installments is paid. Payment for the scholarship for Stella Machel, the Mozambique graduate student, is put on hold since she did not attend graduate school this year.
-- Treasurer Kathryn Cox reported the balance for the choir activity fund (money raised by the choir for its activities) stands at $12,030. The choir's subsidy for the holiday party will be $655 this year.
-- Discussed the Winter Follies. Agreed it was a great show and a big success this year. Kristi Whitney reported that as of Thursday night, $6685 has been collected. Fifteen choir member still have not turned in ticket money. A 10 percent tithe of the net total for the event, once expenses for the band are paid, will be given to the church. A total of 318 tickets were collected at the door. This number combined with the choir members present brought the attendance to about 400. Future possibilities for the talent show/concert fund raising format were discussed.
-- Approved participation in the Mission Auction. Movie theme baskets will be donated.

Chancel Choir Update 2/16: News / Cares and Concerns
Regular rehearsal this Thursday night. See you at 7:30 p.m.

After Choir
Join us at Kreiger's at Big Bend and Highway 141 for food and conversation After Choir this Thursday.

Winter Follies Success
In addition to being a lot of fun and entertaining, the Winter Follies will provide the choir with funds needed for scholarships, community outreach and Chancel Choir activities. An estimated 400 people were in the audience Saturday night. The show has generated a total of $6,700 so far with some choir members still needing to turn in ticket money. Once expenses are paid, a 10 percent tithe of the net proceeds will be paid to the church operating fund as required by choir policy. This is the fourth talent show for the choir which produces a talent show every other year as its annual fund raiser. In non-talent show years, a fall concert is performed to raise money. A selection of behind the scenes photos are included with this email.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We've started an ongoing project to provide food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During February bring any kind of canned fruit or canned tuna. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Cares and Concerns
Mac McMillian, husband of Alto Fran McMillian is recovering at home after being hospitalized for several days.
Tenor John Frederiksen is recovering from surgery last week to remove his gallbladder.

Chancel Choir Update 2/12: Important News
There will be no choir in the loft this Sunday. Let's repeat that: There will be no choir in the loft this Sunday.
Kevin made that announcement at rehearsal last night. We'll see you in the pew instead.

Talent Show
Well, folks, we got a show. Last night all of the secret acts were performed and without a doubt this could be the defining entertainment moment for the decade. Yes, the decade is only two six weeks old, but we have high hopes. This will be a spectacle. We have a Kevin Klein Award winning professional host who is going to tell jokes and sing and a world class blue grass harmonica player. That alone should get us mentioned in the New York Times. And many of your fellow choir members are showing surprising talent. If you aren't singing with us, at least come and watch. We'll be talking about this one for months to come.

Talent Show Ticket Money
That ticket money is due now. Turn it in to Kristie Whitney in the church office.

Chancel Choir Update 2/10: News / Cares and Concerns
This week, we'll work on the talent show. The Chancel Choir will sing in during the talent show and the choir will rehearse its number for the show at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in the Sanctuary. Once the choir is finished, the rest of the evening will be devoted to rehearsing the talent show acts. If you are singing with the choir for the talent show on Saturday, you'll need to be at the rehearsal at 7:30 tomorrow night.

Final Deadline For Tickets Tomorrow Night
Money for the Talent Show tickets is tomorrow night, Feb. 11. We have 15 acts in the works for the show. Ben Nordstrom will serve as the emcee with assistance from Alto Jackie Smith. This gonna be good.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We've started an ongoing project to provide food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During February bring any kind of canned fruit or canned tuna. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Cares and Concerns
Tenor Kathy Lucas reports her father suffered a stroke on Friday. He is hospitalized in Anderson, Ind. She and here husband, Greg, (both new choir members) ask for your thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 2/5: News / Cares and Concerns
The Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service Sunday. Call time is 10:20.

Rehearsal Next Week
Rehearsal next week will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday. The Chancel Choir will rehearse its number for the talent show. All choir members singing with the choir in the talent show should attend that rehearsal. Immediately following the choir's run through of its number, the remainder of the evening will be spent working with the talent show acts. Again, the Chancel Choir will sing one number in the talent show next Saturday and all choir members participating in that number should be at rehearsal Thursday night.

Holiday Brass Is Moving To Manchester
The holiday brass concerts held at the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica each December -- the ones we sang for last year -- are moving to our church next December. The Holiday Brass concerts will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 7. To accommodate the number of people normally attending, three concerts will be held in our Sanctuary that day: 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. The Chancel Choir has been asked to participate again this year. This is a big deal for our church, our music program and our choir.

Winter Follies
Remember to pick up your tickets from Alto Kristie Whitney. Money for the tickets is due on or before Feb. 11. We have 15 acts in the works for the show. Ben Nordstrom will serve as the emcee with assistance from Alto Jackie Smith. This gonna be good.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Christine (Vogel) Southard has been diagnosed with kidney stones and will undergo treatment soon.
Alto Fran MacMillian is improving from pneumonia. Her husband Mac has returned home following hospitalization and treatment after a heart attack.

Chancel Choir Update 2/2: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will rehearse at the regular time this week. Se you there.

After Choir This Week
Join us at Duffey's at Highway 141 and Clayton Road after choir this week for After Choir.

Winter Follies
Remember to pick up your tickets from Alto Kristie Whitney. Money for the tickets is due on or before Feb. 11. We have 15 acts in the works for the show. Ben Nordstrom will serve as the emcee with assistance from Alto Jackie Smith. This gonna be good.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We've started an ongoing project to provide food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During February bring any kind of canned fruit or canned tuna. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Cares and Concerns
Tenor Kathy Lucas has been diagnosed with pneumonia and is asking for prayers of healing and comfort.

Chancel Choir Update 1/29: Cares and Concerns
Mac McMillian, husband of Alto Fran McMillian, remains in the ICU at Missouri Baptist Medical Center after suffering a heart attack late Thursday evening. He had two stints placed in coronary arteries. Fran is recovering from pneumonia which she reports and x-ray today indicates has cleared, but she remains ill.

Chancel Choir Update 1/29: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will sing at 10:50 a.m. this Sunday. Call time 10:20 in the Music Room. Anthem: Canticle of Fellowship.

Winter Follies
Remember to pick up your tickets from Alto Kristie Whitney. Money for the tickets is due on or before Feb. 11. We have 15 acts in the works for the show. Ben Nordstrom will serve as the emcee with assistance from Alto Jackie Smith. This gonna be good.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We've started an ongoing project to provide food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During February bring any kind of canned fruit or canned tuna. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Cares and Concerns
This from Bass Bill Lange: "I have many things to be thankful for, but right at the top of the list are the friends in Chancel Choir. First I want to thank you for the beautiful cyclamen plant. The bright red flowers brighten the day. Next, I want to thank you for the many expressions of your love and concern. Cards, phone calls, prayers and hugs are all very much appreciated. My back surgery was three weeks ago last Tuesday (1/5). I was first in line and finished by about 9:30. In the afternoon, they had me walking a few steps. They got more serious about the walking on Wednesday morning, and Wednesday afternoon they sent me home with medications and a list of do's and don'ts. My progress has been good and I see the surgeon again Feb. 8. If everything looks god to him, the next step will be therapy. My main concerns are to get off the drugs and remove the restriction on driving. The rest will come in due time. Thanks to you all again. I hope to be back at Thursday rehearsals soon."

Chancel Choir Update 1/26: Cares and Concerns
A family visitation for Alto Joyce Humphrey's aunt, Barbara Hartung, will be from 4 until 8 p.m, Thursday (1/28) at the Schrader Funeral Home in Ballwin. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m., Saturday (1/30) at Brays Advent Christian Church in Iberia, Mo. A visitation also will be held there before the service beginning a at 9 a.m.

It's a grandson for Bass Mike Latimer. Mason Leslie Lange was born at 7:39 a.m. today (1/26) at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. He was 20 1/4 inches long. Parents Melissa and Steve are doing well.

Chancel Choir Update 1/26: News / Cares and Concerns
We'll see you at rehearsal on Thursday evening. Same time, same place.

After Choir
Join us at the Corner Pub & Grill at Big Bend and Dougherty Ferry roads after rehearsal this week for After Choir.

Winter Follies Ticket Distribution Begins
Distribution of Winter Follies tickets has begun. All Chancel Choir members will receive 2 tickets to the Follies either to use or to sell. Money for the tickets is due on Feb. 11. Additional tickets may be obtained from Alto Kristie Whitney. If you would like to perform in the show, fill out a participation form and return it to Kevin. The Chancel Choir also will sing for the Talent Show set for Saturday evening, Feb. 13.

Christmas Concert Recordings
CDs of the Christmas concert are available. If you ordered a CD, pick it up from Gary Ford. If you've picked up your CDs and have not paid, please pay him as soon as possible.

Food For Centenary Kitchen
Our ongoing drive to replace food used to feed the homeless in the Centenary kitchen has been a big success. During February bring any kind of canned fruit or canned tuna. Here's a note from Alto Charlotte Moser, the Chancel Choir's outreach director:
"What a great response the Chancel Choir has made in restocking specific items in the Centenary UMC ("The Bridge") pantry. Judy Long, head cook, had tears in her eyes as we delivered your cans of food there last week. A special thank you for your enthusiasm and generosity for this new long-term project."

Cares and Concerns
We are saddened to report the death of Alto Joyce Humphrey's aunt, Barbara Hartung. She died last night (1/25) at St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield. Funeral arrangements are pending.

Chancel Choir Update 1/22: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service on Sunday. Call time is 10:20.

Holiday Dinner/Dance Tomorrow Night
If you've signed up to attend the annual holiday dinner/dance tomorrow night we'll see you at 7 p.m. at Spazio's in Westport.

Winter Follies Ticket Distribution Begins
Distribution of Winter Follies tickets has begun. All Chancel Choir members will receive 2 tickets to the Follies either to use or to sell. Money for the tickets is due on Feb. 11. Additional tickets may be obtained from Alto Kristie Whitney. If you would like to perform in the show, fill out a participation form and return it to Kevin. The Chancel Choir also will sing for the Talent Show set for Saturday evening, Feb. 13.

Chancel Choir Will Sing At Busch Stadium
The Chancel Choir will sing the national anthem at Busch Stadiuim before the start of the baseball game on Saturday, May 22. More details will be provided later. The choir sang at the old Busch Stadium in the 1990s.

Christmas Concert Recordings
CDs of the Christmas concert are available. If you ordered a CD, pick it up from Gary Ford. If you've picked up your CDs and not paid, please pay him as soon as possible.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We've started an ongoing project to provide food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless. During January, choir members are asked to bring one or more of these three items: cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Chancel Choir Update 1/19: News
Regular rehearsal this week. We'll concentrate on music for spring and Easter.

Last Call For The Holiday Dinner This Saturday
If you're going to our big party, you need to turn your money into Alto Lois Hendrickson on or before this Thursday. Our annual holiday dinner and dance will be Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. again at Spazio's in Westport. Deadline for reservations is Jan. 20. As in past years there will be a buffet dinner, cash bar, and music for dancing. This year Brian Foggs, a professional singer, along with female singer will provide music for dancing. They are very good and you will enjoy the evening. Cost is $28 per person. Please pay Lois Hendrickson this Thursday.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We've started an ongoing project to provide food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless. During January, choir members are asked to bring one or more of these three items: cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk. Each month we'll ask for a different set of items. The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.

Winter Follies Are Set For Saturday, Feb. 13
Yes, the show will go on and work is already underway to get the acts ready. The Winter Follies Talent Show will be Saturday evening, Feb. 13. "We need talent acts. Whatever you can do," says Alto Jackie Smith, the show's co-producer. Sign up sheets for the acts are available in the music room. Talk with Kevin if you need accompaniment. Show rehearsals will be held on Thursday, Feb. 11 and Friday, Feb. 12. The Chancel Choir also will sing for the Talent Show. Tickets will be distributed to choir members this Thursday and will be sold in the Nathex beginning this Thursday. We could use some help with sales too. Alto Kristie Whitney is in charge of ticket sales. This is the fourth talent show the choir has produced. The show is presented every other year as the main fundraiser for the choir's activity and scholarship fund. Each choir member will be required to sell two $15 tickets to the show. Tickets will be distributed next week.

After Choir
Join us this week right after rehearsal for food, beverages and fellowship at After Choir. This week we'll head for Applebee's in Ballwin.

Chancel Choir Update 1/15: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will sing for the combined Martin Luther King worship service with St. Paul's AME Church in our Sanctuary at 5 p.m., Saturday (tomorrow). Composer Robert Ray will conduct his composition Like A Mighty Stream. Call time is 4 p.m. in the Music Room. A reception will follow the service.

Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room. Anthems: Like A Might Stream and I Want Jesus To Walk With Me.

Holiday Dinner and Dance Reservations Due Thursday
If you're going to our big party, we need to know soon. Our annual holiday dinner and dance will be Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. again at Spazio's in Westport. Deadline for reservations is Jan. 20. As in past years there will be a buffet dinner, cash bar, and music for dancing. This year Brian Foggs, a professional singer, along with female singer will provide music for dancing. They are very good and you will enjoy the evening. Cost is $28 per person. Please pay Alto Lois Hendrickson at rehearsals or you can mail your check to her at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
Chancel Choir officers approved a project to encourage choir members to bring a can of food to choir to help replenish the Centenary soup kitchen pantry. During January, choir members are asked to bring one or more of three items: cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk. New items will be announced each month.

Winter Follies Are Set For Saturday, Feb. 13
We need your talent. The Winter Follies Talent Show will be Saturday evening, Feb. 13. Kevin told choir officers last night the show will be streamlined this year. Ben Nordstrom and Alto Jackie Smith have agreed to co-produce the show this year. We need talent acts. Whatever you can do. Sign up sheets for the acts are available in the music room. Talk with Kevin if you need accompaniment. Show rehearsals will be held on Thursday, Feb. 11 and Friday, Feb. 12. The Chancel Choir also will sing for the Talent Show. This is the fourth talent show the choir has produced. The show is presented every other year as the main fundraiser for the choir's activity and scholarship fund. Each choir member will be required to sell two $15 tickets to the show. Tickets will be distributed next week.

Spring Mini-Tours To Local Care Centers
The Chancel Choir will visit four local senior care centers this spring as part of a Sunday afternoon mini-tour event. The Chancel Choir will be divided into four choirs and go to four different facilities. The event is tentatively set for 2 p.m., Sunday, April 25. More details will come. Traditionally the choir tours to regional cities every other year. This is an "off" year and the choir will tour locally instead. More details will follow.

Chancel Choir Officers Meeting
Here is a brief summary of business conducted by Chancel Choir officers last night.
-- Choir Outreach Chair Charlotte Moser reported on efforts to help Centenary Bridge soup kitchen over the holidays. There was a good response for Thanksgiving, but there was little help over Christmas. She asked about starting a "bring a can of food" program to help Centenary replenish its pantry each month. This project was approved. She also discussed plans for the choir to sing at four local care facilities in the spring.
-- The 2010 Chancel Choir scholarship program is underway. Letters soliciting applicants will be distributed soon. Each year the choir awards a $1000 scholarship renewable for three years for a total of $4000 to a graduating high school senior. The renewal format was approved last year and a formal renewal process will be developed to allow last year's recipient to apply for her second year funds.
-- Kevin reported that he, Ben Nordstrom and Jackie Smith would produce this year's talent show. It will be streamlined with no auditions and one rehearsal. After discussion, officer approved requiring choir members to sell at least two tickets at $15 each. Preferring seating in front will be sold at $25 per ticket.
-- Choir Treasurer reported a balance in the choir membership activity fund of $12,100. She also reported that buses for the cathedral concert cost a total of $625 and choir members contributed $424 toward that cost. With the $2000 fee for singing at the cathedral and the $7,000 plus collected at our two Christmas concerts, most of the cost of the orchestra for the Christmas concert was covered with the remainder coming from the choir's program budget from the church. The $1000 for a scholarship for a Nigerian graduate student approved by the choir last year was paid last month. The choir also spent $200 on flowers and miscellaneous items last month.
-- Plans for Easter were discussed. While not finalized yet, it is likely the choir will be asked to sing for two services this year: 10:30 and 11:45 a.m. A decision will be made soon. Kevin also said the church had reached capacity for Easter Sunday and next year plans call for an Easter Sunday service at another, larger location.
-- Sunday worship attendance was discussed. Last week we set a record for total weekly attendance at all worship services at 1,800. Total weekly attendance last year averaged 1,100. Kristie Whitney reported average attendance for last year has been 150 at 8 a.m., 450 at 9:30, and from 500 to 800 at 10:50. Saturday evening worship has grown steadily as well.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Shannon reports the death of her step grandmother, Billie Blives, on Tuesday (1/12). "She died of a combination of emphysema and dementia brought on by a serious fall a few years ago. This is especially difficult since her funeral on Friday will also be my birthday. Thoughts and prayers for my family are appreciated," Shannon says.

Chancel Choir Update 1/12: News / Cares and Concerns
Important rehearsal this Thursday for both the Martin Luther King worship service Saturday night and spring music. If you're planning to sing on Saturday night, please attend this rehearsal to practice the music we'll be singing with the St. Paul's Choir.

Holiday Dinner and Dance Reservations Due Jan. 20
If you're going to our big party, we need to know soon. Our annual holiday dinner and dance will be Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. again at Spazio's in Westport. Deadline for reservations is Jan. 20. As in past years there will be a buffet dinner, cash bar, and music for dancing. This year Brian Faggs, a professional singer, along with female singer will provide music for dancing. They are very good and you will enjoy the evening. Cost is $28 per person. Please pay Alto Lois Hendrickson at rehearsals or you can mail your check to her at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011.

After Choir
Join us after rehearsal at Kreiger's at Highway 141 and Big Bend for After Choir.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Janie Walker's husband, Herb, is undergoing tests at St. Luke's Hospital in Chesterfield.

Chancel Choir Update 1/8: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir sings at 10:50 a.m. Sunday. Call time is 10:20.

Holiday Dinner and Dance Reservations Due Jan. 20
If you're going to our big party, we need to know soon. Our annual holiday dinner and dance will be Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. again at Spazio's in Westport. Deadline for reservations is Jan. 20. As in past years there will be a buffet dinner, cash bar, and music for dancing. This year Brian Faggs, a professional singer, along with female singer will provide music for dancing. They are very good and you will enjoy the evening. Cost is $28 per person. Please pay Alto Lois Hendrickson at rehearsals or you can mail your check to her at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011.

Talent Show is Feb. 13
Yes, the Talent Show is on for Saturday, Feb. 13. Begin thinking about your acts. More from Kevin at next week's rehearsal.

MLK Worship Service
A combined worship service with St. Paul AME church is set for Saturday, Jan. 16, at 5 p.m. in our Sanctuary. Call time for Chancel Choir is 4 p.m.

Christmas Concert Success
Total attendance for the two Christmas concert performances was right at 2,000. The offering from both nights totaled $6,300. Kevin reports that the offering along with fees the choir received fro singing at the Cathedral will cover most of the costs of the Christmas concert orchestra.

Cares and Concerns
Bass Bill Lange is recovering at home from back surgery.
Baritone Jim Anderson begins five weeks of radiation treatments for prostate cancer on Monday. The family asks for your thoughts and prayers.

Chancel Choir Update 1/7: Choir Will Rehearse Tonight
Chancel Choir will rehearse tonight as scheduled.
Kevin reports the church parking lot is clear and entrances to the church are safe. "If you are planning on singing in church this Sunday or participating in the Martin Luther King joint worship service next Saturday, you need to be present at tonight's rehearsal," Kevin says. Of course, you must determine if your situation allows for safe travel at your location. Kevin also reports that the upcoming sermon series based on the book "The Shack" is going to be very good and hopes everyone will be present this Sunday.

Chancel Choir Update 1/5: Death In Choir Family
It is with sadness that we report the death of Mildred McKenzie, mother of Baritone John Frederiksen. She died Saturday (1/2) in Kansas City after a short illness. She was 94. A small family funeral service will be held in Kansas City.

Chancel Choir Update 1/5: News
The first rehearsal of the new year is Thursday night. You guessed it, there is spring events to prepare for. See you there. Same time, same place.

After Choir
We'll gather at Duffy's at Clayton Road and Highway 141 for After Choir this week after choir .

Holiday Dinner and Dance Reservations Due Jan. 20
Our annual holiday dinner and dance will be Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7 p.m. until 11 p.m. again at Spazio's in Westport. Deadline for reservations is Jan. 20. As in past years there will be a buffet dinner, cash bar, and music for dancing. This year Brian Faggs, a professional singer, along with female singer will provide music for dancing. They are very good and you will enjoy the evening. Cost is $28 per person. Please pay Alto Lois Hendrickson at rehearsals or you can mail your check to her at: 1047 Camargo, Ballwin, MO 63011.

The Schedule
Thursday, Jan. 7 -- First rehearsal of 2010.
Saturday, Jan. 16 -- MLK combined service with St. Paul. Details to be announced.
Saturday, Jan. 23 -- Annual holiday dinner/dance, 6:30 p.m. at Spazio's in Westport.
Saturday, Feb. 13 -- Talent Show
Good Friday, April 2 -- DuBois Seven Last Words

Christmas Concert Recordings
If you did not sign up for a Christmas concert recording and would like one, please reply to the email. Work on mastering the recording is underway and we sound amazing.