For the last two weeks of July and the first two weeks of August we will be doing “these are a few of my favourite hymns,” and singing some of our community’s favourite pieces of music every Sunday. For these weeks, you will hear a little more about these hymns and why folks chose them in these back-page reflections!

May our hearts be lifted, to the glory of God, through this music.

Thanks be to God!
CG+

 

Joy to the World (Canon Donald L.)
In one of my hymn selection resources "Joy to the World" is listed as a general hymn appropriate for use in any season.  Another resource lists it as a resurrection (Easter) hymn as well as a Christmas hymn.  I once used it as an Easter hymn and it caught the congregation by surprise.  I like it because it celebrated the coming of our Lord.  We can and should celebrate Christ's coming regularly, not just at Christmas and Easter.  And Sunday can be understood as a little Easter and a little Christmas

Amazing Grace (David H.)
Very meaningful to our family, as was played at graveside after Edie's celebration of life, with Cameron administering blessings and prayer.

The Lord’s My Shepherd (Ruth F.)
There were two reasons that I chose this hymn.  It was Doug's favourite.  I learned it by heart when I was five but didn't know it was a hymn and loved it when I first heard it.  I won a small medal for memorizing it and might still have it.

Sanctus #719 (Karen B)
I just really like this arrangement and it makes my heart sing.

The Rose (Anna M.)
I believe The Rose is a life lesson,  a metaphor for love and a song of encouragement. Although not considered a traditional hymn. I have heard it sung many times in a variety of church settings. The first time I heard it was  at St. Mark’s  Anglican  church in Brantford Ontario in the late 70’s . It was sung by  a Franciscan Monk. A very emotional experience that has stayed with me throughout my life.

Lord of the Dance (David H.)
Lord of the Dance has been a favourite of Edie and myself since we first heard at Christ Church in Oshawa. Then it was once or twice a year sung at St. Christophers in West Vancouver, and hopefully all that sing it today will find it as uplifting as we always have, and even be a periodical hymn at St. John's.