“Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.”
Psalm 100
From left to right: Tom Garrison, Finley Murphy, Amy Smick, Eryn Campbell
Music is integral to our worship, providing the means to express what, in faith and in life, often transcends the capacity of mere words to capture. We sing together a blend of music from around the world and more traditional hymns. We use the current Presbyterian Church (USA) hymnal, Glory to God.
Under the direction of Andrew Stephens, the Chancel Choir meets to rehearse at 9:00am each Sunday to prepare anthems in a variety of musical styles, with the help of four Section Leaders (pictured below). The Chancel Choir regularly sings for the 10:30am service and supports our congregational singing from the pews.
Members and friends of Central are invited and encouraged to share their musical talent with the faith community by working with Andrew Stephens and organist Dr. Ann Marie Rigler to offer their gifts in worship.
“The trumpeters and musicians joined in unison to give praise and thanks to the LORD. Accompanied by trumpets, cymbals and other instruments, the singers raised their voices in praise to the LORD and sang: ‘He is good; his love endures forever.’”
2 Chronicles 5:13
The centerpiece of the sanctuary’s chancel is the console for a thirty-four rank Austin pipe organ. A Yamaha C – 6 (7′) grand piano allows for different music styles and also organ/piano duets. Four octaves of Schulmerich handbells plus two octaves of hand chimes add another musical dimension to our worship.
Throughout the year, different seasons invite us into worship through special music. At key moments in the life of the church, choral and instrumental offerings enrich our services, adding depth, beauty, and meaning to our shared worship. These musical expressions help mark the rhythms of the liturgical year and create space for reflection, celebration, and connection.