We're singing Precious Lord, Take My Hand this week in church

[wryter2000]

Our choir is on break for the summer, and we're having a pick-up choir of anyone who shows up early enough to rehearse. So of course, I had to do that. (I have a fairly decent voice but no real breath control, and I can't read music. Just what you need in a choir, right?)

So anyway, we're singing from the African American hymnal (Lift Every Voice and Sing). Two songs: Go Down Moses, which I know, and Precious Lord, Take My Hand, which I just had to check out on YouTube because I wasn't familiar with it.

OMG, it's so beautiful. I don't think I can get through it without bawling. I'm going to be an emotional mess.

I should mention I'm Episcopalian--one of God's frozen people. We aren't into emotional displays, although everyone in my church is lovely and affectionate with each other. I guess I'd better pack tissues.

[AJT]

1. I was baptized Episcopalian, but ended up an agnostic.

Last year I sat next to the Episcopalian minister of my dads church at dinner. I have never met anyone more racist or hateful. I was stunned that anyone like that would be allowed to preach in any church. Everyone that belongs to that church is also a crazy rightwinger, including my father.

[wryter2000]

2. OMG

What part of the country is that? I'm surprised he hasn't left the church because of our policy regarding LGBT rights.

One of the main reasons I rejoined the church was because of its stance on justice for LGBT folks. I would have been loudly out the door at the first sign of hate.

BTW, I'm also agnostic, which my rector knows. Atheists and agnostics are also welcome in our parish.

I don't mean to dismiss your experience with that person. I only wonder why he feels comfortable in the Episcopal church.

[AJT]

6. Western PA, near Ligonier.

[wryter2000]

7. I'm really sorry to hear this

I know some diocese have pulled away from the church. I wasn't aware any in Pennsylvania had. The national church is strongly in support of civil rights.

[guillaumeb]

3. If you like "Go Down Moses", you might like this version.

[wryter2000]

4. Thanks

That was lovely

[guillaumeb]

5. I agree. This series is a fantastic site for Gospel music.

In my opinion.