As you are probably aware, the “Freedom from Religion” group, an organization that is committed to taking all religion out of public viewing, has recently written letters to the Presidents of Clemson and USC, among others, asking that the University…
White to black — or black to white
A lady called some weeks ago saying that her church was in deep trouble. No surprise here — many churches are “in deep trouble” for various reasons. She said the pastor decided to fire the part-time music director who had…
Three questions for worship
Who is watching? Who is singing? Who really cares?
A zeal he does not own
There is a wonderful, thought-provoking text by the hymn writer Frederick W. Faber (1814-1863) titled “There’s A Wideness In God’s Mercy. It speaks to this generation perhaps even more powerfully than to his own. It is not sung as often…
Strangers among us
Most churches can, and should, do a better job of making sure that visitors feel welcome. Where were these words spoken? 1. “Greetings! How are you today?” 2. “Hello! I’m so very pleased you are with us today. How can…
Don’t forsake the old hymns
The decline of hymnody is harmful to the theology and music quality in many of today’s churches. I am becoming very burdened about what I am seeing, feeling and experiencing in worship these days in many churches. Things are different,…