It is important to remember our worship of Almighty God should be part of life every day. More than the praises lifted up on Sundays, worship is about keeping our focus at all times on the One worthy of our worship... the Lord Jesus Christ.
Our monthly People of Joy outings to area senior adult facilities have been put on hold for now as we anticipate warmer temps for our upcoming visits.
Last Sunday, (February 11, 2024) marked the inaugural service of our new pianists team of players for Sunday worship (check out the recap below). We welcomed former member Gary Watts at the piano. God's Spirit filled our worship with His Presence... Great is the Lord and greatly to be praised!
This Sunday (February 18, 2024) we continue to rejoice as Pat Dendy, AWBC Secretary, SS teacher and occasional soloist joins us at the piano. Brother Steve is back in the pulpit, the heat is operational, and despite members with a wide range of health issues, we pray the Holy Spirit's powerful presence will fill this place as you join in our worship, Bible study and fellowship.
My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song. "Psalm 28:7b
2024 AWBC Pianists - A New Plan
(Recap)
Since 1999 AWBC has been blessed by several gifted organists/pianists serving our music staff. Despite Megan Rowan's announcement to leave at the end of May 2023, we confidently believed God was already preparing the next pianist for us, so we continued praying His will be done.
Without any immediate respondents, we rejoiced over the news Shellie Bailey's precious wife Betty would come to our rescue as interim pianist thinking, "I can fill in until someone could be hired." Betty came not seeking a permanent position but eager to share her gifts and love of God and music with AW.
Through the summer and fall many prospective candidates were contacted - members and non-members - in hopes of securing the one god wanted to serve in this place. Even as many declined, we prayed and sought God's leading... but no nibbles.
In God's perfect timing, Jennifer Warren came to us in October 2023, and I heard God saying "Yes!" Her skill set and experience was perfect for our need, but she was unable to commit to the full-time weekly responsibility we asked for. And that's when Betty Bailey agreed to fill the gaps whenever Jennifer's family obligations prevented her from serving. A perfect solution right? But a past back injury began rearing its ugly head, so Betty advised we needed to find someone to replace her soon.
Our Music Committee huddled and came up with a novel plan that proposes AWBC utilize a team of rotating accompanists for our 11 am Sunday worship. Jennifer, as Lead, would play two Sundays a month. Tier 2 members would each play one Sunday per month, or more if desired. Tier 3 members would fill in as needed. At present we have 5 pianists who have committed to this novel plan:
* Lead: Jennifer Warren (playing 2 Sundays per month, her choice)
* Tier 2: Gary Watts, Pat Dendy (each playing 1 Sunday per month)
* Tier 3 Sybil White, Wanda McClemore (filling gaps when needed)
We praise God for bringing this solution and pray it will allow each of these gifted musicians to keep worship at AWBC in their schedule. We love each one and know God has brought them to us. If you know of others who might be interested in joining this team, please let me know.
Soli Deo Gloria!
Blessings... !