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Chancel Choir Email Update Archive ~ 2010:
April - June

 

Chancel Choir Update 6/29: News / Cares and Concerns
Summer Choir This Sunday July 4
Join us in the loft this Sunday. We're singing the Star Spangled Banner. No Cardinal's mix up this time. Report to the Music Room at 10:20.

Last Call For Big Bear This Thursday
One of our most popular summer dinner stops. Join us at 6:30 Thursday, July 1, at the Big Bear Grill. Reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday. The Big Bear Grill is at 16524 Manchester Road a mile or so west of Clarkson in front of the Schnuck's Store in the same building with St. Louis Bread Company. The food is excellent there. Here a link to a map: http://bigbeargrill.com/location.htm

Cares and Concerns
This from Alto Debbi Brader:

"My dad, Gene Jackson, has a mass on one of his kidneys. The good news is that the kidney is a congenitally non-functioning kidney and his "good kidney" is clear. The bad news is that as a long time bladder cancer patient (over 10 years), this is not good news to have a mass. The doctor is pretty sure it is malignant. We will know more today about the plans for surgery or whatever. Please keep dad in your prayers -- thanks."

New email address for Soprano Kathy Givens: kathy.givens@sbcglobal.net

Chancel Choir Update 6/28: Bible School Dinner Info
If you signed up to help with the dinners for the Bible School on Tuesday or Wednesday nights this week, here is some important information from Choir President Diane Lawrence:

To: The 60 choir members who have volunteered to help with VBS
From: Diane Lawrence

First of all, a big Thank You for volunteering your time.

Parking: Please park in the east (Woods Mill Road side) parking lot between the chapel and the preschool.

It is going to be a wild and crazy couple of nights -- we hope to serve approximately 500 people in 45 minutes. By the time we are up on Tuesday and Wednesday there will be two days of experience which will definitely be to our benefit.

If you do not remember your day or shift call Diane Lawrence 636-391-6435. If you want to come early or hang later that is fine.

Attire for the evenings is the green VBS shirt if you have gotten one, second choice faith in action shirt, third choice any MUMC shirt.

Volunteers may also eat. For us that is probably best after everyone else has eaten.

Menus are simple:
Tuesday: Chick-Fil-A nuggets, potatoes, carrots and cookies
Wednesday: Spaghetti w/ meatballs (we cook), applesauce, cookies

Plates will be served in adult and children sizes to be picked up at the front of fellowship all. Plastic ware, napkins, condiments, and water will be on the tables .

There is more cooking on Wednesday than on Tuesday. Serving the plates and getting them out in an orderly manner will be our main challenge. The other important tasks are keeping the traffic moving in the designated manner, keeping the supplies refilled, and , of course, cleaning up.

Thanks again for helping. I look forward to a couple of fun evenings.

Chancel Choir Update 6/25: News
No summer choir this week.
Here's the summer choir schedule:

July 4 (Hope you still have the National Anthem memorized?!?!?)
July 18
August 1
August 15
August 22
August 29

Summer Dinner Headed To Big Bear Grill in Wildwood Next Week
This is a favorite and Thursday is meat loaf night. Join us at 6:30 next Thursday, July 1, at the Big Bear Grill. Reply to this email or call Sandy Ford at 636-227-5749 by noon Wednesday. The Big Bear Grill is at 16524 Manchester Road a mile or so west of Clarkson in front of the Schnuck's Store in the same building with St. Louis Bread Company. The food is excellent there. Here a link to a map: http://bigbeargrill.com/location.htm

Vacation Bible School Dinners Tuesday and Wednesday
If you signed up to help serve dinner for the Vacation Bible School on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings next week, you will receive a note in the mail from Kevin with all of the details and instructions.

Cares and Concerns
This from Bass Jim Starbuck:

"A huge thanks to those who filled my Mail Call packet. Suzanne had only 9 days advanced notice about it. Getting in touch with relatives, et al by e-mail, phone, etc. was a monumental task. A complete surprise to the 29 vets on board the plane about an hour before landing at Lambert. I had made it thru the day in DC without an emotional let down, but after reading only 4 of the 85 letters I got, the water works let go and I couldn't read the rest. In fact, it took several days for me to read them all. The whole experience was unforgettable, overwhelming. Please take note. It is amazing how many veterans do not know about the Honor Flight. Not government funded. Eventually ALL veterans will become eligible. Vets are free and impairments no problem. Letting other Vets know about the Honor Flights is my way of saying "thanks" for the memories."

New email address for Bonnie Halls: Bonnie@hallssales.com

Chancel Choir Update 6/22: News / Cares and Concerns
Dinner This Thursday At Lester's
Join us at Lester's on Clayton Road just east of Baxter Road at 6:30 p.m. this Thursday. Haven't been to Lester's? Great deli sandwiches, barbecue, corned beef and meatloaf. If you'd like to join us, please reply to this email or call 636-227-5749 before noon, Wednesday. Our Thursday dinners are lots of fun. We'd love to see you this week.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Sue Lemley was found to be in good health after experiencing what she believed was a heart attack on June 8. She spent the night at St. Luke's Hospital and underwent cardiac angiography the next day.

Sue and Art Lemley's daughter, Jennifer, was recently diagnosed with cervical cancer. They ask for prayers from the choir family for Jennifer.

Alto May Lou Adams is undergoing chemotherapy for recently diagnosed ovarian cancer. Cards may be sent to 634 Shady Meadows Dr., Ballwin, MO 63011.

Chancel Choir Update 6/18: News
Summer choir will sing in the loft this Sunday, June 20. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 am.

Dinner Next Thursday Will Be At Lester's
Join us at Lesters on Clayton Road just east of Baxter Road at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 24. Haven't been to Lester's? Great deli sandwiches, barbecue, corned beef -- great food. 'If you'd like to joiun us, please reply to this email on or before noon, Wednesday, June 23. Join us for a great mean and fellowship.

Chancel Choir Update 6/15: News
Summer choir will sing in the loft this Sunday, June 20. Report to the Music Room at 10:20 am.

Last Call for Dinner Stop At Country Buffet This Thursday
Our next dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 17 at Home Town Buffet on Manchester Road east of Highway 141. If you'd like to joiun us, please reply to this email on or before noon, Wednesday, June 17. We'd love to have you join us.

Cares and Concerns
New email address for Jim Descher: jimdescher@live.com

Chancel Choir Update 6/7: Correction
No Summer Choir This Week
Summer choir will not begin until Sunday, June 20. Sorry for the error.

Chancel Choir Update 6/7: News
Summer choir begins this Sunday, June 12. Report to the Music Room at 10:30 for warm up.

Traveling Summer Dinners Begin Begin This Week
The first dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. this Thursday, June 10 at Applebee's in Ballwin. If you plan to attend, please reply to this email by noon on Wednesday, June 9. In order to make this event happen each week, we need to know how many will attend. So, if you say your are coming, we will expect you. If you can't come, please call us and let us know. We really need your cooperation and advance notice.

Spring Chancel Choir Party This Saturday
It's the annual end of spring Chancel Choir party at 6 p.m. this Saturday, June 12, at the home of Tenor Tim Zink and Laurie Holcomb at 2236 Whitby Road just off Clarkson Road north of Clayton Road. A map is included below. As usual, we'll depend on your culinary skills for dinner at the party. Bring something to share and a beverage of your choice. The Zink's have a large back yard and patio. This year at this event, children are welcome. There will be activities planned for kids during the party. See you Saturday night.

Directions to Tim Zink's House and the Party Saturday Night
The Zink/Holcomb house is at 2236 Whitby Road in the Westhampton Subdivision in Clarkson Valley. The two entrances to Westhampton are both off of Clarkson Road.

From the intersection of Clayton and Clarkson, go north (towards Chesterfield Mall). The Westhampton Subdivision is the second subdivision on your right. The street name is Kettington. Turn right on Kettington. Drive to the first stop sign and make a left on to Whitby. Tim's house is the third house on the right facing Whitby.

From Kehrs Mill and Clarkson, drive south towards Manchester Road. The second entrance to Westhampton is the third left hand turn. Turn left on Trowbridge. Follow Trowbridge and when it makes a right turn, the street becomes Whitby. Tim's house is the fourth house facing Whitby on your left.

Tim's says they try to park on just one side of the street so that traffic can get through. Park on the same side as the house is on, please. Tim's home phone number is 636-230-9017 and my cell phone number is 314-566-6340.

Chancel Choir Update 6/4: News
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Report to the Music Room at 10:20. This is the last official appearance of the choir in the loft for this season. If you are going to skip this week, you may want to rethink that since Ben Nordstrom will be singing a solo with us. Not a bad way to end the year. All music is due this Sunday. Just leave it in your folder slot.

Spring Chancel Choir Party
The annual spring Chancel Choir potluck will be Saturday, June 12 at the home of Tenor Tim Zink. Activities for children will be provided. Directions, including a map will be emailed to you early next week.

New Chancel Choir Officers
Officers for next year were approved during rehearsal last night. They are: President, Diane Lawrence; vice president/president elect, Joe McMillen; secretary, Kristie Whitney; treasurer, Kathryn Cox; and assistant treasurer, Tom Lawrence. Section reps will be named later. All directors will be returning to their jobs this year.

Symphony Gift Card to Carl and Becky Schenck
The Chancel Choir presented Carl and Becky a gift card to purchase season tickets at the St. Louis Symphony. A total of $700 was collected for the gift. Becky attended rehearsal Thursday night to receive the gift and thank the choir.

Traveling Summer Dinners Begin Next Week
It's the big event of the summer -- Thursday traveling dinners. This year, choir social director Sandy Ford has some interesting places on her list. Our first dinner will be at 6:30 p.m. next Thursday, June 10 at Applebee's in Ballwin. If you plan to attend, please either reply to this email by noon on Wednesday, June 9. In order to make this event happen each week, we need to know how many will attend. So, if you call and say your are coming, we will expect you. If you can't come, please call us and let us know. We really need your cooperation and advance notice.

Chancel Choir Update 6/1: News
Rehearsal Thursday
It's the last rehearsal of the season. We'll prepare for the worship service on Sunday. All music must be turned in this week.

After Choir
Join us at Krieger's at Highway 141 and Big Bend for refreshments, snacks and conversation immediately after rehearsal at After Choir.

Link To Us On YouTube
Here's the link to a recording of Baba Yetu from the Pentecost Service.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7fQq0GxHRg

Spring Chancel Choir Party
The annual spring Chancel Choir potluck will be June 12 at the home of Tenor Tim Zink. Activities for children will be provided. Details and directions coming soon.

VBS Dinner Signup
If you'd like to held cook and serve dinner for the summer vacation bible school on either Tuesday, June 29 or Wednesday, June 30, you may sign up now. We'll need 30 people each evening.

Help In Kitchen For Centenary
We need three folks to help prepare lunch at Centenary on Wednesday, June 16 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you can help, contact Charlotte Moser at charlotte@tritech-pmi.com.

Chancel Choir Update 5/28: News / Cares and Concerns
The choir sings for all three worship services this Sunday. Report to the Music Room at 7:30 a.m. We will sing for the 8:00 , 9:30 and 10:50 a.m. worship services. Music: God of Grace and God of Glory and He Comes to Us.

Anniversary Cards For Eedy
In August, Eedy Gustafson will celebrate 25 years as the church's music department assistant. We are planning a card shower for her. The cards are being collected by Alto Janie Walker. Please bring a suitable card to rehearsal or Sunday worship in the next two weeks and give it to Janie. Do Not Send The Card To Eedy. (She will not see this item in her email update.) Cards also may be mailed to Janie at the following address: Janie Walker, 16018 Nantucket Island, Wildwood, MO 63040. The cards will be presented to Eedy in August.

Spring Chancel Choir Party
The annual spring Chancel Choir potluck will be June 12 at the home of Tenor Tim Zink. Activities for children will be provided. Details and directions coming soon.

Upcoming Events
Thursday, June 3 - Final rehearsal of the season.
Thursday, June 10 -- Summer Dinners Begin
Sunday, June 13 - Summer volunteer choir begins.

Help In Kitchen For Centenary
We need three folks to help prepare lunch at Centenary on Wednesday, June 16 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you can help, contact Charlotte Moser at charlotte@tritech-pmi.com.

VBS Dinner Signup
If you'd like to held cook and serve dinner for the summer vacation bible school on either Tuesday, June 29 or Wednesday, June 30, you may sign up now. We'll need 30 people each evening.

Baba Yetu Video
Many of you have asked about a link to the video of the choir singing Baba Yetu last Sunday. The video has been posted on Facebook, however I could not find a link to it on YouTube. If you are on Facebook, you may find a link posted on Erica William's profile page. If the video is posted on YouTube, I will provide a link.

End of Season
As we wrap up the year, please remember zip and hook your choir robe the last time you rehang it this year. Also return all music to your folder slot.

Cares and Concerns
The father-in-law of Bass Howard Davis died this week in Pennsylvania. No other information is available. Cards may be sent to: 324 Charity Dr., Lake St. Louis, MO 63367.

Its a first great-grandchild for Alto Janie Walker. Emory Jean Munzlinger was born this week. Parents are Brittany and Joe Munzlinger.

Chancel Choir Update 5/25: News
Rehearsal for important Sunday this week. The choir will sing for Carl's last Sunday with us at all three services. Rehearse special music Thursday night.

After Choir
Join us at The Corner Pub & Grill at the corner of Big Bend and Daugherty Ferry roads for refreshments, snacks and conversation immediately after rehearsal at After Choir.

Spring Chancel Choir Party
The annual spring Chancel Choir potluck will be June 12 at the home of Tenor Tim Zink. More information coming soon. The annual summer (back to rehearsal) potluck will be held on Aug. 28. Location to be determined.

Upcoming Events
Thursday, June 3 - Final rehearsal of the season.
Thursday, June 10 -- Summer Dinners Begin
Sunday, June 13 - Summer volunteer choir begins.

Help In Kitchen For Centenary
We need three folks to help prepare lunch at Centenary on Wednesday, June 16 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you can help, contact Charlotte Moser at charlotte@tritech-pmi.com.

Busch Stadium Photos
If you took some nifty photos at the Cardinal's game last week, I'd like to have them for the "choir archives". Put them on a CD and drop them in choir box number 41.

Chancel Choir Update 5/22: Singing At Busch Stadium
Okay, so our adventure singing at the Cardinal's game today didn't turn out as planned. Somehow someone screwed up and told two groups they could sing the national anthem. Like that happens every day. Of course an adult church choir couldn't say no to a bunch of kids -- especially with a few thousand other Methodists watching from the stands. Those Cardinal's guys are smart -- they had us and we didn't stand a chance. So, look on the bright side. We sang a song from memory we hadn't seen in four or five years in front of 42,000 people, television cameras, and even Tony LaRussa. Makes you wonder what we could do if we really tried. In fact, I'm wondering what other music we already know. That rehearsal thing may be overrated. And it was a pleasant afternoon. Being on the back row, I had some advantages. Tony nodded at me as we walked by the dugout. Albert Pujols actually waved back at me like I might be important. And U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill smiled, shook my hand, and said we sounded very good (while I pretended not to be a Republican.) So, it wasn't a total loss. And thanks to Cardinal guilt, we have some free tickets coming our way and maybe a repeat invitation to sing that national anthem again someday. (We'll get it in writing this time.) And don't forget that U.S. Senate approval -- we all know how prestigious that is. Below are some photos from today. They are random, selected from my shots and those shared with me so far. I'm sure there are other good ones too and I can't wait to see a video.

Chancel Choir Update 5/21: Important Information
It's going to be a busy weekend.

First, the ballgame tomorrow.
If you missed rehearsal last night, there is an instruction sheet that goes into great detail about tomorrow. Here is the summary:
Noon -- Arrive at the stadium. Meet at the southeast corner of the stadium near Gate No. 1. Do not enter the stadium until a Cardinals representative leads us through the gate. You must have your ticket to enter. Once inside, only singers and the director will be allowed down the ramp to the field. All others should go directly to their seats in the stadium.
12:15 -- Enter Stadium. Tickets scanned. Cardinals rep will escort us down the ramp to the field. We'll line up and get ready.
12:45 -- Enter the Field. We'll sing at 12:57 then exit the field quickly to find our seats.
Dress -- Blue jeans and a Cardinals shirt (any color as long as it's a Cardinals shirt). No hats on the field while singing.
No Music -- There will be no music on the field. We'll sing from memory.

Pentecost Sunday This Week
We'll sing for both the 9:30 and 10:50 a.m. worship services. Report to the Music Room at 9 a.m and if you can't make it to the first service, report at 10:20. Wear red and black for the morning. We will process following the special instructions we practiced last night. If you missed rehearsal, visit with another singer so you'll know.

Help In Kitchen For Centenary
We need three folks to help prepare lunch at Centenary on Wednesday, June 16 from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. If you can help, contact Charlotte Moser at charlotte@tritech-pmi.com.

Cares and Concerns
It's granddaughter number five for Soprano Penny and Tenor Bob Klebe. Martha Parke Klebe arrived at 1:40 p.m. yesterday (5/20) at Missouri Baptist Medical Center. Tracy and Kevin Klebe are the parents; Grace and Lulu are the sisters. All are well.

Chancel Choir Update 5/19: Additional Information
More info for today's update.
Food Drive For Centenary Suspended
Hold off on brining canned food to rehearsals. Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge") has received 5000 pounds of food from a food drive sponsored by the U.S. Postal Service. The Chancel Choir is going to take a break from providing food for Centenary and will likely resume in the fall.

After Choir
Join us at Mulligan's in Ellisville at the corner of Manchester and Clarkson roads for refreshments, snacks and conversation immediately after rehearsal at After Choir.

Chancel Choir Update 5/18: Important News
Important rehearsal Thursday night. We'll rehearse the Star Spangled Banner for the Saturday Cardinal's game in the church parking lot beginning at 7:30 p.m. Singers from Concord Trinity will join us for the rehearsal. And there's Ted Drewes for everybody. (We'll be inside if its raining.) Then at 8:30 will rehearsal a special processional for Sunday's Pentecost service. It's important that you be there. Why wouldn't you -- there's free Ted Drewes.

Plan The Wardrobe Now
This Sunday, May 23, the Chancel Choir will wear black and red for Pentecost Sunday. That means solid colors -- no strips, checks, patterns or white. Just solid red tops and black pants. To sing at the Cardinal's game on Saturday, May 22, we'll wear blue jeans and red Cardinal shirts or something red.

Spring Chancel Choir Party
The annual spring Chancel Choir potluck will be June 12 at the home of Tenor Tim Zink. More information coming soon. The annual summer (back to rehearsal) potluck will be held on Aug. 28. Location to be determined.

Chancel Choir Update 5/17: Interesting News
Kevin's Hand Sculpture Presented by St. Louis Metro Singers
When Kevin resigned as director of the St. Louis Metro Singers last year, the organization gave him a unique farewell gift. They commissioned Chesterfield artist Don Wiegand to make a sculpture of Kevin's hands. Kevin spent an afternoon last year in the artist's studio having a casting of his hands made. The final product was delivered on Sunday afternoon as Kevin and representatives of the Metro Singers visited the artist's studio.

Chancel Choir Outreach Projects Featured in The Messenger
Chancel Choir president Donna Biolchini asked me to write a news story about the choir's outreach projects for the church's online newsletter The Messenger. The story ran on Friday. If you don't see or read The Messenger, the story is repeated below.

Chancel Choir Uses More Than Just Music To Reach the Congregation and Community
With more than 160 voices, the Manchester United Methodist Church Chancel Choir can provide a pretty powerful sound on Sunday morning. But you may not be aware the Chancel Choir’s music includes more than just singing – the choir has ongoing outreach programs that bring a different kind of melody to the community.

“Our programs range from scholarships to food for the homeless,” says Donna Biolchini, current Chancel Choir president.

For the past several years, the Chancel Choir has adopted the Centenary UMC “Bridge” program to feed the homeless in downtown St. Louis. Choir members work in the Centenary kitchen on a regular basis and Chancel Choir Director Kevin McBeth has challenged all choir members to take a turn in the kitchen.

Earlier this year, the choir began helping stock the Centenary kitchen pantry. Choir members bring different food items each month to rehearsal for delivery to Centenary. Since the beginning of the year, the choir has taken more than 700 cans of food to the Centenary kitchen.

This year the Chancel Choir will present its 15th scholarship to a graduating high school senior. Last year, the choir increased the scholarship to a $4000 award -- $1000 each year renewable for the four years the student is in college. Since the scholarship program began, the Chancel Choir has awarded more than $30,000 to MUMC youth.

In addition to helping youth further their education, the Chancel Choir has also supported the church’s youth ministries. Its contribution to the annual youth auctions and now mission auction has raised more than $25,000 for youth and mission programs in the church.

The Chancel Choir also helps various community organizations with worthy projects. Last year the choir helped the BJC Hospice Stepping Stones Bereavement Camp for Children rebuild its camp facility after it was damaged by flooding. The camp helps local children who have lost a parent or sibling through death. At Christmas each year, the Chancel Choir “adopts” Circle of Concerns providing toys, gift cards and grocery cards for its clients.

The Chancel Choir’s scholarships and outreach projects are funded through annual fund raising concerts and performances such as the Fall Follies. A ten percent tithe of the net profits for each fund raiser is given to the church’s general fund, with the rest going to the projects of the choir.

As you might expect, the Chancel Choir also uses its singing talents for outreach into the community. On April 25, the choir divided into four smaller choirs and sang at four senior citizen facilities in St. Louis. “This is a way we can bring our music ministry to people who are unable to get out,” Biolchini says.

Taking their talents outside our Sanctuary isn’t a new thing for the Chancel Choir. A few years ago, the Chancel Choir divided into four smaller choirs and provided Sunday morning worship music at four area churches.

The Chancel Choir regularly tours to other cities in the region singing in churches and senior citizen centers. Its music ministry outreach has traveled to Kansas City, Chicago, Cincinnati, Nashville, Memphis, and Indianapolis.

The MUMC Chancel Choir is dedicated to enhancing worship through music and spends many hours each week rehearsing and singing. But, music is just one of the ways they minister to others.

Chancel Choir Update 5/14: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service Sunday. Call time is 10:20 in the Music Room. Anthem: Christ Is Made the Sure Foundation.

Food Drive For Centenary Suspended
Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge") has just received 5000 pounds of food from a food drive sponsored by the U.S. Postal Service. The Chancel Choir is going to take a break from providing food for Centenary and will likely resume in the fall. We will continue to work in the kitchen however. Here is a note to the choir from Lu Oros, associate director of The Bridge: "Thank you . . . thank you . . . thank you, and that doesn't seem to be enough to let you know how you helped to keep the food flowing the past few months. Your consistent and faithful giving has been outstanding. As Charlotte Moser can confirm, our pantry shelves have been empty but for what you've donated. We can't express enough how much we appreciate the support you and your entire church body give to The Bridge. Blessings . . ."

Plan The Wardrobe Now
On Sunday, May 23, the Chancel Choir will wear black and red for Pentecost Sunday. That means solid colors -- no strips, checks, patterns or white. Just solid red tops and black pants. To sing at the Cardinal's game on Saturday, May 22, we'll wear blue jeans and red Cardinal shirts or something red.

We Need A Bass Rep
The slate of Chancel Choir officers for the 2010-2011 choir year is almost complete and will be announced next week. But, we still need a representative from the bass section. If you'd like to represent your section at the monthly officers meeting, see Kevin.

Spring Chancel Choir Party
The annual spring Chancel Choir potluck will be June 12 at the home of Tenor Tim Zink. More information coming soon. The annual summer (back to rehearsal) potluck will be held on Aug. 28. Location to be determined.

Bible School Dinners
The Chancel Choir has agreed to provide meal service for the evening Vacation Bible School on Tuesday and Wednesday, June 29 and 30. About 30 volunteers will be needed each evening to prepare food, serve and clean up. Food will be provided, our job will be to prepare and serve it. More information will be coming soon. Between 500 and 600 people will eat at each of the two dinners.

Chancel Choir Officers Meeting
The Chancel Choir officers held their last meeting for the choir year before rehearsal last night. Choir president Donna Biolchini thanked this year's officers for their hard work this year. Vice president/president elect Diane Lawrence will serve as president next year. Here is a summary of the business conducted at the meeting:

-- Heard a report from Charlotte Moser about the choir's outreach activities. Helpers are still needed to work at Centenary in May. The can collection will be temporarily suspended because Centenary has enough food due to a large donation from the U.S. Post Office. The senior center singing outreach Sunday was a success. Mission baskets for the auction sold well and this year's scholarship has been awarded. An article for The Messenger has been prepared covering the choir's outreach activities.
-- A committee will meet this summer to determine what future holiday parties will be like. Several possible changes to the holiday party are being considered. Section managers will serve on the committee along with Kevin and Diane Lawrence.
-- Approved spending $250 to purchase 20 zippers for robes. Wardrobe Director Melissa Larson will replace damaged and malfunctioning zippers this summer.
-- There are five people who still have not paid for the brunch on last year's Chicago trip. These people will be contacted individually.
-- Tabled a discussion about purchasing new white stoles.
-- Kevin will talk with Will about making sure the choir can hear announcements while waiting in the Narthex before worship each Sunday.
-- A slate of officers will be announced to the choir next week. Joe McMillen has agreed to serve as vice president/president elect. A bass section representative is still needed.
-- Approved asking the choir to serve two Vacation Bible School dinners this summer on June 29 and 30.
-- Discussed Sneaker Sunday and how the choir can participate.
-- Kevin reported 94 people will sing the national anthem at the Cardinal's game on May 22. The choir has purchased 190 tickets for the game. The church's buses will be available to provide some transportation. We'll need to find drivers for them.
-- The choir's activity fund (money raised by the choir members for activites, outreach, scholarships, etc) totals $17,171. The choir spent $125 on condolence/get well plants last month.
-- Kevin reviewed next year's tentative schedule and reported that the budget for the music program next year is very tight. Here is the proposed schedule:

Retreat - Oct. 8 and 9. Location to be determined.
Pipescreams - Oct. 31
Holiday Brass at Manchester - Dec. 7 - 10:30 a.m., 2 and 8 p.m.
Sing Christmas - Dec. 18 and 19
Fund raising concert -- Feb. 26
St. Louis Civic Orchestra Pops with choir - May date to be determined
Final New York trip to Carnegie Hall -- November 2011 -- Chancel Choir, plus Collinsville Civic Chorus, and choirs from Shawnee Mission South High School and Church of the Resurrection, both in the Kansas City area.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Carole Lembke reports her husband, Ray, had a stint placed in a coronary artery on Monday and returned home on Tuesday. "He is doing great. Thank you for your prayers, cards and emails."

Alto Fran McMillian reports that husband, Mac had the angiogram Tuesday that indicated an artery to a kidney is 60 percent blocked and there is a blockage in his heart. Stints will placed sometime soon. “Thank you for prayers.”

Chancel Choir Update 5/12: Important Notice
Here a note from Kevin:
"This week's rehearsal will include music for the next four weeks: Pentecost, Carl's Farewell and Annual Conference, as well as music for the Cardinal's game. Everyone's expected!"

Chancel Choir Update 5/11/10: News / Cares and Concerns
Rehearsal this week is important to prepare for our appearance at the Cardinal's game. See you there.

After Choir
Join us at Krieger's at Big Bend and Highway 141 for refreshments, snacks and conversation immediately after rehearsal at After Choir.

Seven Last Word Recordings
Pick up your CDs of the Seven Last Words at rehearsal this week. If you've got your CD and haven't paid, please pay this week.

Upcoming Events
Thursday, May 20, 7:30 p.m. - Star-Spangled Banner rehearsal for Busch Stadium with the Concord Trinity Choir. Parking lot party planned.
Saturday, May 22, 1:15 p.m. - Sing at Bush Stadium
Thursday, June 3 - Final rehearsal of the season.
Sunday, June 13 - Summer volunteer choir begins.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We're continuing to collect food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During May bring: tuna, baked beans/pork n' beans, canned pasta or cream of chicken soup.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Christina Southard is asking the choir family for its thoughts and prayers for her husband Richard's family. Richard's brother, Clyde, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, May 5, while in the hospital recovering from knee replacement surgery. He was 51 years old.

Soprano Fran McMillian reports her husband Mac is undergoing a coronary angiogram and possibly placement of a stint today.

Chancel Choir Update 5/7: News / Cares and Concerns
We sing for worship at 10:50 a.m. this Sunday. Call time is 10:20. Anthem: This Is The Day The Lord Has Made.

Upcoming Events
Thursday, May 20, 7:30 p.m. - Star-Spangled Banner rehearsal for Busch Stadium with the Concord Trinity Choir. Parking lot party planned.
Saturday, May 22, 1:15 p.m. - Sing at Bush Stadium
Thursday, June 3 - Final rehearsal of the season.
Sunday, June 13 - Summer volunteer choir begins.

Seven Last Word CDs
The CDs of the Seven Last Word concerts will be ready for pick up on Sunday. If you didn't order a CD and would like one, let me know.

We Made The Channel 2 News

A nice news story about Faith In Action Sunday was included in the KTVI Fox 2 news last week. You may see the video by going to www.fox2now.com. Click on the video archives and scroll through until you see a video titled “West County Church Swap Services for Service.” The piece will also be shown in church this Sunday.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Fran McMillian reports that her husband Mac will undergo a coronary angiogram and possibly placement of a stint on Tuesday.

This from Bass Bill Lange: “I recently received a beautiful mum plant from 'your church choir family.' I want to thank my 'family' for this plant and the love and concern it represents. I also want to thank you for the cards and calls checking on my progress. I plan to be back with you shortly. God truly blessed Jean and me when he led us to Manchester United Methodist and this choir.”

Chancel Choir Update 5/4: News
Regular rehearsal this Thursday. We're getting ready for the ballgame, Pentecost Sunday and Carl's farewell.

After Choir
Join us after rehearsal at the Corner Pub & Grill at Big Bend and Dougherty Ferry for refreshment and conversation at After Choir.

Missing Music and Stand
During the Faith in Action event at Meramec Bluffs, we came up missing a music stand and copy number 7 of Hymn of Promise. If anyone has these or took them back to the church, please let Bass Tom Lawrence know.

Last Call For Busch Stadium Ticket Money
If you are singing at the Cardinals game with the Chancel Choir on May 22, your game tickets must be ordered and paid for this Thursday, May 6. Checks should be made out to MUMC and you should put UMM in the memo line. Money should be paid to Chancel Choir treasurer Kathryn Cox.

Word From The Social Director
Chancel Choir Social Director Sandy Ford is ready to go for the summer traveling dinner season. She's got some interesting, new places to visit this year. We'll dine out each Thursday evening during summer after rehearsals stop for the season. Also, the social director is working on another trip to Fast Eddie's soon and plans are underway for an adult Easter Egg Hunt for Chancel Choir members next spring. Can't wait for that one.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We're continuing to collect food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During May bring:
- Tuna
- Baked Beans/Pork n' Beans
- Canned Pasta
- Cream of Chicken Soup

Faith In Action Sunday
Members of the Chancel Choir fanned out in all direction Sunday morning doing good all over. Some choir members decided singing was their best way to help others. Below are photos of a group that provided music at Meramec Bluffs. Former Chancel Choir Director Betty Gnaegy accompanied the group that was directed by Carole Langley.

Chancel Choir Update 4/30: Faith In Action Opportunity
Not assigned to a Faith In Action project on Sunday or working in the afternoon and have some time in the morning? Here’s an opportunity: Sing with a choir directed by Soprano Carole Langley and accompanied by Betty Gnaegy for the morning worship service at Meramec Bluffs. Arrive at 9:15 a.m. and you'll be done by 11:30 a.m. Call or email Tom Lawrence at twlawr@swbell.net or 314-608-8034 if you’d like to participate.

Chancel Choir Update 4/30: News / Cares and Concerns
No choir in the loft this Sunday. In fact there's no worship services this Sunday. It's Faith In Action Sunday -- go work somewhere.

Busch Stadium Ticket Money Is Due Now
I you are singing at the Cardinals game with the Chancel Choir on May 22, your game tickets must be ordered and paid for by Thursday, May 6. Checks should be made out to MUMC and you should put UMM in the memo line. Money should be paid to Chancel Choir treasurer Kathryn Cox.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Carol Lembke reports her husband Ray is home from the hospital following a heart attach last Saturday. "We thank all the choir for their calls, cards, visits, and e-mails. He received a stint in one of his arteries around his heart and it is believed his incident did minimal damage. However, they found another partially blocked artery and will be putting another stint in that artery in two to three weeks so I would like continued prayers from the choir that all goes well then too. We feel this is God's wake up call to put priorities in our lives and take care of what is important."

This from Baritone John Frederiksen: "Thank you all for the love, support, and care you have given our family - especially this past winter and spring. Your heart-felt hugs and prayers, and your supportive cards and flowers have helped Nancy and me more than you know through the loss of my mother and my surgery. We are so very lucky to be a part this wonderful community. And thanks for the sweet (Nancy's word!) outfit you gave to our newest granddaughter, Tala Green. It happens so often that when one door closes, God opens another . . . Each of you mean very much to us -- thanks for being there."

Chancel Choir Update 4/28: More News
Busch Stadium Ticket Money Is Due Now

I you are singing at the Cardinals game with the Chancel Choir on May 22, your game tickets must be ordered and paid for by Thursday, May 6. Checks should be made out to MUMC and you should put UMM in the memo line. Money should be paid to Chancel
Choir treasurer Kathryn Cox.

Scholarship Recipient Thanks The Choir
We received this note from Keith Maestas:
“I am going to be at Mizzou next fall and I am enrolled in the honors college. I'm going in undecided on a major, but I'm interested in studying music, theology, psychology, biology, and chemistry. I want to take classes in all of these but I'm still working on narrowing down which one I want to major in. I also plan on moving on to med school after undergrad as I want to be a trauma surgeon in the ER. I would love it if you could simply just tell the choir how thankful I am for this scholarship. This is not only very helpful in making college affordable, but it will also make playing club lacrosse at Mizzou possible. In addition, I would like to take the opportunity to thank all of you for simply your presence in our church. I love listening to the Chancel Choir sing and I think it is a high point in our church. Honestly, the best Sunday service I've had other than this recent Youth Sunday was last Easter when I was able to sing with the purple people. I greatly respect that you guys keep music in your life and also glorify God with your talents. Again, thank you so much for everything.”

Mugging Ministry Is Selling Its Mugs
There’s a “fire sale” in the Mugging Ministry. That’s the group that delivers information and other stuff about our church to people who visit a worship service for the first time. The Mugging Ministry has changed its name to “First Responders” and now is using reusable shopping bags for its deliveries. They want to get ride of their mug supply. If you’d like one of these nifty mugs with the MUMC logo on it, they are asking for a $2.50 donation. Look for the box of mugs at rehearsal tomorrow night.

Decades Will Play At Potluck On Sunday
Bass Joe Elstner’s band, The Decades, will provide music at the big potluck parking lot party on Sunday evening to celebrate the Faith In Ministry work day.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We're continuing to collect food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During May bring:
- Tuna
- Baked Beans/Pork n' Beans
- Canned Pasta
- Cream of Chicken Soup

Chancel Choir Update 4/26: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel choir rehearses this Thursday. We need you to stick with us through May. See you Thursday.

After Choir
Join us after rehearsal at Krieger's at Big Bend and Highways 141 for snacks and discussion at After Choir right after choir.

2010 Chancel Choir Scholarship to Keith Maestas
Keith Maestes, son of Barbara and Daniel Maestas, was presented the 15th annual Chancel Choir scholarship during Youth Sunday worships services on Sunday, April 25. Chancel Choir Vice President and Scholarship Chair Diane Lawrence made the presentation. The scholarship, totaling $4000, will be paid out $1000 per year as long as Keith remains in college. Keith will graduate from Parkway West High School. The scholarship is presented to a graduating senior each spring. The selection process begins in March with applications and ends with extensive interviews in April. The selection committee is chaired each year by the choir’s vice president/president elect.Last year the Chancel Choir approved doubling the amount of the scholarship to $4000 and spreading the payment over the four years the student is in school.

Chancel Choir Mini-Tours To Four Senior Centers Sunday Scores a Big Hit
It took more than a little rain on Sunday to dampen the spirits of the 100-plus Chancel Choir singers who fanned out in four choirs to entertain residents of four West St. Louis County senior centers. And it didn't take long for the choirs to raise the spirits of their audiences. "Four choirs at the same time?" a woman at Gambrill Gardens exclaimed with a disbelieving expression on her face.

The singers gathers for a quick pizza lunch in Old Fellowship Hall before scattering around the church to rehearse with the four volunteer directors and accompanists. After a quick 45-minute rehearsal, it was off to the venues carpooling in four directions from the church for a 30-minute concert at 2 p.m.

We asked each of the four directors to record a few impressions and write a very brief report. Their comments appear below. Sorry, we didn't get photos on this adventure. We will next time.

Fountains of West County – Carole Langley, director: “The excellent choir that sang for the Fountains of West County presented its program with great charm and enthusiasm. Not only did our members sing well, but expressed the meaning of each of the anthems with joy and friendly faces. Four of our choir members introduced their mothers who were present at the program. The room was filled with a very receptive audience who responded to the music with much enthusiastic applause. Other residents listened to the program from outside the doors and all seemed to enjoy the program very much. At the concert's end choir members visited with residents and received many expressions of thanks. Residents there look forward to having us return and we certainly enjoyed our brief visit. Our pianist was Roslyn Wylie and we were grateful for her excellent support. It was a very good day.”

Meramec Bluffs – Claudia Fallert, director: “Today, we had a delightful afternoon at Meramec Bluffs Retirement Center. The residents were very appreciative. The choir sounded great. Michelle Jones was our accompanist. According to my husband, we had about 125 people in the audience. I thought the rehearsal was just as fun as the actual performance. The music making takes place there and the performance is just that, the culmination of the music making. This fourth of the choir made music! Dick Vreeland gave us a tour of the facility. It was simply put, a lovely afternoon. The residents were in awe of the fact that we took a Sunday afternoon to be with them, in the rain, no less. The performance was very well received by the residents. I think we should keep doing things like this, and maybe more often than once a year. A great experience. The pizza was pretty darn good, too.”

Gambrill Gardens – Mike Latimer, director: “After our concert, three ladies came up and talked with me. One lady was Mrs. Dorothy Andereck. She's a very immaculate lady. She lost her husband not long ago and misses him greatly. Her daughter, Peggy is on the staff at MUMC. Dorothy was very proud as she told me how her daughter picks her up and takes her to church each Sunday morning. Another lady, whose name escapes me, helps with the serving of food before and after many of our music programs at MUMC. She has lived at Gambrill for some time. She was so funny. She said she'd been serving the choir and congregation members for so long, and yet unfortunately, didn't recognize a sole in our choir. A third lady came to me after the concert and said, ‘I need to give you a hug.’ The concert moved her in so many ways. She told me that among all the choir members, Gene and Richard (she did not know them by name) moved her the most -- how they showed so much emotion in every song they sang. We had an excellent 25-member choir including 8 altos, 8 sopranos, 4 tenors, and 5 basses and pianist Matt Safley (who deserves very special thanks). The facilities at Gambrill Garden were perfect for warming up and for the concert. The residents were a great audience, maybe 75 or more attended the concert in the Chapel."

Friendship Village – Kevin McBeth, director: “The group at Friendship Village had a great experience. We, of course, had former Director of Music Betty Gnaegy in the audience. Betty commented following the concert, that the music was beautiful. Dispite the temperature in the Theatre (we had one alto who had to sit about halfway through the program, due to a near fainting spell), the facility is beautiful. The residents were very complimentary, and asked when we'd be coming back. I believe we had about 27 AWESOME singers! John Cargile accompanied us.”

Cares and Concerns
Ray Lembke, husband of soprano Caorl Lembke, is hospitalized at St. John's Mercy Medical Center after suffering a heart attack Saturday afternoon.

Chancel Choir Update 4/23: News
No choir in the loft this Sunday. It's Youth Sunday. Come and see the presentation of this year's youth scholarship.

Choir Mini-Tour This Sunday Afternoon
This is the Sunday we split into four choirs and sing at four different senior care facilities. Here is the schedule:
Noon -- Lunch in Old Fellowship Hall on the lower level. Pizza, salad and dessert. Lunch is free, paid from choir activity fund. Arrangements by Jo Ann Jones, choir hospitality director.
12:30 -- Each small group will rehearse
1:30 -- Travel to your location
2:00 -- Perform a 30 minute mini-concert.
Dress: "Sunday Nice"
Carpool if you can. Directions provided.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We're continuing to collect food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During May bring:
- Tuna
- Baked Beans/Pork n' Beans
- Canned Pasta
- Cream of Chicken Soup
The food will be used to cook meals for the homeless at the downtown St. Louis church.
Special thanks go to Rhoda and Bud Kemper, Nancy Wilson, and Sue Sturhahn who volunteered this past Wednesday.

Tickets Orders For Busch Stadium Needed Now
If you plan to sing with us at Busch Stadium on May 22, you will need to purchase a baseball ticket. There is a signup sheet for ticket purchases. Sign up for one or more tickets. Cost is $15, $20 or $30. Although there will be ticket sales in the Narthex for church members, choir members should purchase tickets through the choir signup.

Chancel Choir Update 4/21: Cares and Concerns
A visitation for Charlotte Kingsbury, grandmother of former Chancel Choir member Joe Kingsbury, will be from 5 until 7 p.m., Thursday (4/22) at the Alexander Funeral Home on St. Charles Rock Road at Lindbergh in north county. She died Friday after a lengthy hospital stay.

Beginning June 1, Dr. Robert Sciortino (pronounced Shoreteeno) will join Dr. Bruce Jones (the choir's orthopedist). Dr. Sciortino does general orthopedics, with emphasis on sports injuries, shoulders and ankles, as well as hip and knee replacements. Jo Ann says "we'll have a doctor in the office every day after June 1. He's been practicing at Missouri Baptist for the last ten years, and he will keep his privileges there, but now he'll be mostly at St. Luke's. At first, Dr. Sciortino will be in the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and Bruce will be there Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays."

Chancel Choir Update 4/20: News / Cares and Concerns
This week is an important rehearsal for Sunday's "mini-tour" appearances at four area senior centers. See you Thursday night.

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

Community Outreach Mini-Tours This Sunday
The Chancel Choir will divide into four smaller choirs and sing at four senior centers this Sunday. Chancel Choir will meet at noon Sunday in Old Fellowship Hall for a pizza, salad and desert lunch. At 12:30 p.m., each of the smaller choirs will rehearse for its performance. At 1:15 p.m., the smaller choirs will leave the church to go to their singing venues. The performances will begin at 2 p.m.and last about 30 minutes. Chancel Choir will not sing for worship this Sunday because it is youth Sunday. Come to church and stay for lunch and rehearsal.

Tickets For Chancel Choir At Busch Stadium
If you plan to sing with us at Busch Stadium on May 22, you will need to purchase a baseball ticket. There is a signup sheet for ticket purchases. Sign up for one or more tickets. Cost is $15, $20 or $30. Although there will be ticket sales in the Narthex for church members, choir members should purchase tickets through the choir signup.

Lunch Fees Are Due From Chicago Trip
If you ate the buffet lunch during our trip to Chicago last year, it's time to pay up. The check was paid that Sunday by one of our Chicago hosts who was reimbursed out of the Choir's activity fund. Now we need to replace that money. If you ate lunch that day, you owe $26 per person. Make checks payable to the church and give them to Soprano Barb Farmer as soon as possible.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We're collecting food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During April bring: Bottled salad dressing (any kind), canned green beans, canned green peas. 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
Bass Bill Lange will undergo additional back surgery today (4/20) at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

Chancel Choir Update 4/16: News / Cares and Concerns
Chancel Choir will sing for the 10:50 a.m. worship service this Sunday. Call time is 10:20. Anthem: With A Voice of Singing.

Community Outreach Mini-Tours April 25
The Chancel Choir will divide into four smaller choirs and sing at four senior centers next Sunday, April 25. There's still time to sign up to sing with one of the small choirs. Chancel Choir will meet at noon next Sunday, April 25, in Old Fellowship Hall for a pizza, salad and desert lunch. At 12:30 p.m., each of the smaller choirs will rehearse for its performance. At 1:15 p.m., the smaller choirs will leave the church to go to their singing venues. The performances will begin at 2 p.m.and last about 30 minutes. Here are some important notes: The Chancel Choir will not sing for worship Sunday morning, April 25, because it is youth Sunday. Come to church and stay for lunch and rehearsal. Our singing outreach on April 25 is not connected to the May 2 Faith In Action Sunday. There are several singing assignments in place for the May 2 Faith In Action event, but they are not related to nor connected with our efforts on April 25. Some choir members have confused the two events. You are encouraged to participate in both.

Chancel Choir Will Sing At Busch Stadium
The Chancel Choir will sing the national anthem before the St. Louis Cardinal's baseball game at 1:15 p.m. on Saturday, May 22. That is United Methodist Day at the ballpark. If you plan to sing with us, you will need to purchase a baseball ticket. There is a signup sheet for ticket purchases. Sign up for one or more tickets. Cost is $15, $20 or $30. Although there will be ticket sales in the Narthex for church members, choir members should purchase tickets through the choir signup.

Special Concert Sunday Night
Don't miss "Music for Voice and Organ" at 7 p.m. this Sunday, April 18. Soprano soloist Maureen Miller is the featured performed accompanied by John Cargile. This is part of the church's concert series.

Lunch Fees Are Due From Chicago Trip
If you ate the buffet lunch during our trip to Chicago last year, it's time to pay up. The check was paid that Sunday by one of our Chicago hosts who was reimbursed out of the Choir's activity fund. Now we need to replace that money. If you ate lunch that day, you owe $26 per person. Make checks payable to the church and give them to Soprano Barb Farmer as soon as possible.

Chancel Choir Officers Meeting Activity
Chancel Choir officers met last night before rehearsal. Here's a summary of the meeting business:
-- Finalized lunch plans for next Sunday before the choir sings at four senior centers. Cost of the lunch will be paid from choir activity funds.
-- Heard a report on outreach activities at Centenary. More than 700 cans/packages of food have been provided to the Centenary pantry. Choir members are meeting Kevin's challenge to serve lunch there at least once.
-- Scholarship selection is under way. There were seven youth eligible to apply this year and three applicants. Interviews are concluding and the winner will be announced during worship next week at Youth Sunday. The scholarship will be $1000 renewable for each of the four years of college. The process for recipients to renew their scholarships was discussed and a letter to be sent requesting documentation was approved.
-- Discussed date and location for the annual spring choir party. The date is tentatively set for after the ball game on May 22 or June 12. Locations will be investigated.
-- The last Thursday rehearsal for the season will be June 3. A summer choir will be provided similar to last year.
-- Discussed purchase of new white stoles. Alternatives are being investigated.
-- Asked Kevin to request that the PA system in the Narthex be turned on so the choir can hear announcements from the pulpit prior to the processional. It is likely that announcements in the future may be made at this time in the service and the choir should be able to hear them.
-- The choir's activity fund (money raised by choir members) totals $17,294. This includes $6,390, the final total from the talent show.

Cares and Concerns
Alto Donna LaMarca is recovering from recent back surgery. No additional information is available.

This from Soprano Joan Lemen: "Please convey my thanks to the choir for the beautiful plant and the many cards and notes wishing me well after my fall. I am getting stronger every day. I know the prayers and cheerful messages are helping."

Note from Kevin:

April 14, 2010
Greetings One And All!

These days, I imagine you all panic when you see an email coming from the church! Well, have no fear - most of this email is good news!

After the amazing "Seven Last Words" presentation and the glorious Easter services, I really am anxious to make music with you again! Your singing feeds my soul in countless ways, and we continue to raise the level of excellence! I'm so grateful for each of you. ENERGY - BEAUTY - PLACEMENT

This is my usual spring pep-talk, because I know you can hardly wait to go out and play in this weather - but...duty calls. (Remember when that really meant something?) There are many changes ahead for us, but as Stephanie Hibray reminded us on Sunday (what a service that was...WOW), "the wind of change has nothing on the breath of God!"

Thirteen years ago, I had a conversation with John Ward that I will always remember John's comment was that the Chancel Choir will always be a bridge that carries the church over troubled water! I was both blessed and scared by that statement. Truthfully, I don't think we're headed for troubled water at all, but we are headed toward "different", and that may be troubling for some. All of that leads up to YOU! What the church needs during this transition is your presence, plain and simple. This is a time to lead with your feet, and that will speak volumes to the congregation. You are the example, whether you like it or not! Seeing you in the loft brings hope and comfort to people, and the bonus is that your singing blesses them.

Not to mention the fact that we have a lot on our plates: Mini Tours, Pentecost Sunday, 2 Farewell Sundays, the Annual Conference LOW ATTENDANCE Sunday, and a Welcome Sunday! There is some great music ahead, and it won't be the same without you, so...I REALLY can't wait to see you tomorrow night!

I did mention a bit of bad news - if you ever wondered whether or not there was such a thing as a free lunch, wait no longer! Those of us who went to Chicago last Spring enjoyed a lovely brunch, but never actually paid for it. I've been late in making this request, but we were presented with the bill and we do need to pay it. It comes to $26 a person (just those on the trip, of course) and you can give your money to Barb Farmer ASAP! Checks payable to the church, as usual. (See there - that wasn't too bad!)

Finally - to the rumors that I will be following Carl and Chris out the door...if anyone knows where I'm suppose to be going, LET ME KNOW! It's all news to me!

Love to you all,
KJ

Chancel Choir Update 4/13: News
Back to rehearsal this Thursday. We'll get ready for our "mini-tours" to local senior centers on April 25. Lot's of details to work out. See you there.

After Choir
Join us at Applebee's in Ballwin for food, drink and conversation at After Choir right after choir.

Bring A Can Of Food To Choir
We're collecting food for use in the kitchen for the Centenary UMC's food service program for the homeless (now called "The Bridge"). During April bring: Bottled salad dressing (any kind), canned green beans, canned green peas. 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 Pictorial Directory
Thanks for checking your directory entry on the website. All changes provided last week have been made.

Chancel Choir Update 4/9: News
No Choir This Sunday
Chancel Choir has this Sunday off.

Register For Faith In Action
You’ve got one more Sunday to get registered for Faith in Action on May 2. Registration will be extended through this Sunday, April 11. You can register at the Faith in Action table in the Narthex, or online at: http://manchesterumc.org/faithinaction/

Last Call For Mission Auction
This is the last Sunday to reserve a table or seat for the Mission Auction set for Friday, April 16 at the Doubletree hotel in Chesterfield. Please drop by the table in the Narthex and sign up. Cost is $35 per person and entrée choices are beef or salmon. If you have previously signed up, but haven’t paid or chosen your meal, please do that this Sunday.

Website Directories Updated
The pictorial directors on the Chancel Choir website have been updated. Please take a minute to locate your entry. If there's a mistake, let me know. Also take a look at our new members for the year. Here are the direct links to the various directory pages:

New Members 2009-2010
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Directory/New%20Members%20-%202009-2010.htm

Soprano
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Directory/chancel_photodirectory-soprano.htm

Alto
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Directory/chancel_photodirectory-alto.htm

Tenor
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Directory/chancel_photodirectory-tenor.htm

Bass
http://www.mumchancelchoir.org/Member/Directory/chancel_photodirectory-bass.htm

Chancel Choir Update 4/7: Important News / Cares and Concerns
No Rehearsal This Week
The choir has the week off. No rehearsal on Thursday.

No Choir This Sunday
Chancel Choir has this Sunday off.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Joan Lemen is recuperating at home following a fall at her home Sunday evening. She was released from St. Luke's Hospital today after undergoing treatment for a broken shoulder and pelvis.

Register For Faith In Action
You’ve got one more Sunday to get registered for Faith in Action on May 2. Registration will be extended through this Sunday, April 11. You can register at the Faith in Action table in the Narthex, or online at: http://manchesterumc.org/faithinaction/ There are tons of interesting projects that you can be a part of including: helping at a horse rescue shelter, participating in a sing-along or playing bingo at local nursing homes, making quilts for homeless women, cooking meals for shut-ins, putting a new roof on a public park shelter, building a deck at a high school memorial garden, helping start a garden for a women’s self-help shelter, doing call-outs for Autism Speaks, organizing supplies for at-risk newborns, helping rake and do clean-up at the zoo, and even washing airplanes for Wings of Hope. There's also opportunity for a few more Team Leaders for projects, so stop by the registration table if you’re interested in helping lead a group of volunteers that day.

Chancel Choir Update 4/2: Important News
Tonight's Concert
Call time for tonight's concert is 6:30 p.m. Be in your seats ready to warm up at 6:30.

No Perfume, Cologne or Scents Tonight

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.

Easter Parking and Shuttle For Choir
The choir is asked to part in the Office Depot parking lot on Easter Sunday morning. A shuttle bus will begin running at 9:30 a.m. and continue until after the 11:45 a.m. worship service.

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.

Cares and Concerns
Soprano Shari Sevier has been honored by the Progressive Youth Connection as one of nine people from the St. Louis area who have done exceptional work on behalf of children. Shari is director of guidance and counseling for the Rockwood School District. She was nominated by Dr. Sally Blackburn, of Selvidge Middle School, because of her efforts in creating a comprehensive K-12 guidance and counseling program and specifically for her work on suicide prevention in the Rockwood district. She will be honored at a banquet on May 7.