Third and Main Street
Greensburg, PA 15601-0150
(724) 832-0150

Sunday Worship 10am

Songs of the Soul, a compact disc representative of the music that is heard at the worship services at First Presbyterian Church, is now available for $15 at the coffee hour or through the church office. The compact disc is a result of the regular commitment of many participants in the music ministry and nine hours of recording the week following Easter Sunday. It features the Chancel Choir singing ten anthems such as Mack Wilberg's arrangement of the hymn-classic "Praise to the Lord" and the ever-popular "Hear Me, Redeemer" in a gospel style. Also included are duets by our soloists and selections by the Logos Choir, the Joyful Noise Singers and the Kirk Handbell Ringers. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of SONGS OF THE SOUL will be given to the Second Sunday Supper Project.

Music Mission Statement

"The Worship of God is central to life and music has been an important element in corporate worship throughout human history. It enriches our worship celebration by reinforcing the meaning of Scripture and it opens the focus of our prayers and praise.

The music we sing or play is an expression of our faith - it is a gift from God and an offering to God. Through commitment and dedication to excellence, God's children of all ages share the gift of music with our
congregation and others in the community at large."

At First Presbyterian Church, we strongly affirm the ability of music to address and engage us as a religious people. Jolm Calvin once said that "music is a funnel into the heart through which should pour the word of God." It is our prayer that you will be blessed by your participation in the music ministry of our church whether you are a part of the congregational choir (our largest choir) or one of the choirs listed below.

The Chancel Choir leads the congregational song and provides choral anthems and responses for the 11 a.m. worship services. Soloists and ensembles from the choir offer music during the 9:30 and 11 a.m. worship service. First rehearsal is Thursday, Sept. 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the choir room. Party at the Sunset Cafe honoring Vivian Schwing follows rehearsal.

The Kirk Ringers play two sets of Schulmerich handbells at the 11 a.m. service once a month and on special and festive occasions. The first rehearsal is Thursday, Sept. 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the new handbell rehearsal space next to the choir room. Party at the Sunset Cafe following rehearsal.

The Joyful Noise Singers is an ensemble for youth in grades 6 through 12 that sings at the 11 a.m. service at least once a month and on special and festive occasions. The first rehearsal is Sunday, Sept. 10 at 12:15 p.m. in the choir room.

Celebration Ringers is a handbell ensemble for youth in grades 6 through 12. Rehearsal times to be arranged.THE

Elementary Music Program is a part of the LOGOS program which incorporates a meal, Bible time, Worship and Music time, Family time and Recreation. The music curriculum guides the children in discovering their voices and exploring the many ways we can make and respond to music. The vocabulary of worship is introduced in song and prayer. Rhythm instruments, Orff instruments (glockenspiels, xylophones, etc.), handchimes, and handbells are incorporated. The children sing once a month at the 11 a.m. service. First meeting is Wed., Sept. 13 at 5 p.m.THE

Sunday School Music Program includes a Cherub Choir for the very young and a Sunday School Choir for older elementary children. Traditional and contemporary hymns are sung along with Sunday School favorites. The choirs sing on occasion at the 9:30 a.m. service.

Instrumental Music plays an important role in the worship and musical life of FPC. A wide variety of organ pieces are played on our Austin chancel and gallery organs and the Johannus digital organ in the chapel. Brass, woodwind, string and percussion instruments are frequently featured in our services. For several years, Karen Cole has organized instrumental ensembles for special occasions.

OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUNG SINGERS

The gift of song is the right of every child. Auditions for the Westmoreland Children's Chorus under the direction of Shirley Huls can be arranged by calling 724-830-1058 or 724-837-0847.

Please encourage your child/ children to participate in this 50voice ensemble (grades 4-10) which rehearses Tuesday evenings (6:307:30 p.m.) at First Lutheran Church. Openings in the Westmoreland Apprentice Chorus are also available for children in grades 2 and 3. Call 724-265-2234.