Garry spoke last night about the role of music in worship. Worship is, of course, about far more than music: it is the giving of our whole lives to God, as Rom 12:1 makes clear. Nonetheless, singing and music have always played an important part in the worship of God, for the things God does for His people cause us to rejoice in this way. When God delivered Israel from Egypt, the people sang! (Ex 15:1) 1 Chron 16:9 tells us to ‘sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts’ The book of Psalms was clearly a song book as well as prayer book, for many psalms have the heading ‘to the tune of’ or ‘for the director of music.’ David and others appointed singers and musicians to lead people in musical worship (see 1 Chronicles 15:16, 19 – 22, 2 Chron 31:2).

This musical tradition has been carried on throughout the history of the New Testament and the history of the church, and Goldthorpe is no exception. Ellen Burgin (known as ‘Grandma Burgin‘ to many) played the piano in the early days, with Ron and Gerald Burgin singing. Tom Shepherd helped out with music on many occasions, even though he attended another church as well. Joan and Ian Bland were instrumental (!) in helping with music and influential in helping Gillian to learn the piano. Mark Burgin began to play the guitar in Sunday School and graduated to leading worship in church meetings, something he still does today. Gary Burgin started playing in drums in church when he was 14 and we are thrilled that Caleb has started to do this at a young age as well.

Students from Mattersey Bible College contributed to the musical life of the church, including one known locally as ‘Button Eye’ (because his real name was too difficult to pronounce!) and more recently Ant and Sarah Lee. In 2007, Stephen started playing bass guitar at the church and is now also involved in playing the piano and leading worship. God has greatly blessed the church with people who are able to be involved in the musical side of worship and as we prayed last year for the development of ministries in the church, we are encouraged by how He is doing this.

Music is not the same as worship, but it is a tool to help us reflect on the many good things God has done and on His character. During the service, we experienced a whole variety of music styles! We started the service with some of today’s worship songs and listened to a song called ‘Mercy.

DSC_0284Garry, Caleb and two visiting friends gave us three songs in a variety of styles which spoke of God’s power and grace, including the world premiere of Garry’s song ‘Do You Some Good’ (which definitely got Diane dancing!):

DSC_0295Mark closed the meeting with some ‘golden oldies’, songs that used to be sung in the church over the years, including ‘Majesty’, ‘We’re Together Again’, ‘Bind Us Together, Lord’ and ‘I Stand Amazed.’ The volume might have been loud at times, but the joy in our hearts was heard in the singing and playing!