The inaugural concert of the St. James' Bicentennial Organ, with Ken Cowan performing, filled us with wonder and inspiration. But it was the morning services that prepared me to appreciate the musical offerings of the day and gave insights into the music that we hear at every church service. The Rev. Canon Victoria Sirota was our Bicentennial guest preacher; she also led the adult education forum between the services. She maintained that music is the fastest way into our faith—a portal to what is holy—and that listening will help us hear the voice of the divine in new ways. When we allow ourselves to be inspired and sing together we are getting a glimpse of heaven, and organ music brings us to God in other ways. Everyone is not a gifted musician, myself included, but coming together in song or in inspirational listening brings the liturgy alive in very special ways. I know that I will be listening anew and maybe trying to sing a little more.
Charlene Simonian
