The Worshipping Commission has undertaken and has completed or is in the process of completing a number of projects. Some of the highlights are:

• As the full-time Minister of Music Paula Smith has been very busy this year. She directs the Chancel choir, 3 Praise Teams, “Break of Day” liturgical choir, “Ringspiration” bell choir and “Grace Notes” youth choir. She has been ably accompanied by Cathy Whitten our organist who also subs as keyboardist at the contemporary service as needed. Paula also recruits and incorporates various musicians to add to our services throughout the year. 
• New pew cushions and kneelers have been added to the sanctuary thanks to a generous gift from Marigrace and Ed Kirstowsky.
• Paul Norder thoroughly researched and oversaw the installation of an upgraded sound system for the sanctuary. This system will allow us to record the services as well as improves the amplification of voices from various areas of the sanctuary.
• A new and improved, red hymnal has replaced the green hymnal in the pews. A new pulpit Bible and Missal were donated as well to bring us up-to-date.
• Two nursery workers have been hired to share the job allowing them time to worship with their families. A nursery pager system has been installed to allow nursery workers to page parents to return to the nursery if needed.
• Grace hosted a youth bell choir from Oregon who provided a wonderful evening of music. They have inspired our choir although I have yet to see anyone dance while they play.
• Sylvia Countess, a deaconess currently serving in Palestine, visited and preached on July 22 at all 3 services as well as presenting a seminar on her experiences.
• A packed house listened in awe as Grace hosted our annual Music Festival. If you missed it this year, be sure to mark your calendar for next year so you can hear God’s gifts of music at work. Hats off to Paula Smith for coordinating this event.
• All singers were welcome to come and participate in a Messiah sing to kick off the Advent season. Those who were too shy to sing were able to enjoy another wonderful musical experience.
• Many thanks to all the members who share their time and talent in the many aspects of worshipping. The acolytes (age doesn’t matter), ushers, greeters, offering stewards, set up crews, clean up crews, nursery workers, singers, musicians, leaders, lectors, liturgists, altar guild members, and so many others who enable us to worship God every Sunday morning.
• During Advent, members of the Worshipping Commission presented the children’s sermons discussing the candles on the Advent Wreath, and organized a nativity pageant presented by the young children at the 8:30 service.

Respectfully submitted,

Janet Rawl