Music and Religion

I was born into a very religious family. For as long as I can remember I’ve been going to a Baptist church on Sunday morning, night and Wednesday night. The music of the church has one purpose and that is to glorify God. I think the history behind a lot of traditional hymns is really interesting. One of my favorite hymns is “A Mighty Fortress is our God;” and, last year, I enjoyed learning about the history behind Martin Luther’s chorale.  For those who do not know, Martin Luther started writing chorales in 1523 so everyone could be involved in church music.


 At my current church, music is so exclusive and it’s almost like a clique; and I really don’t like it. I am the only one in my church who has attended music school and I’m not involved in the music program because they don’t want me to be (lest I introduce any new ideas.) Honestly, I think it’s a pretty toxic situation.  
Since coming to Converse, I’ve started attending a Presbyterian church and I love it. I sing in the choir and I have a lot of fun doing it. The Presbyterian church structure is vastly different from the Baptist structure I’m used to; but honestly I prefer the Presbyterian. I like how everything has a time and place and the music compliments what goes on in the service.  I also like how everyone is encouraged to participate in the music aspect of the service. It was at this church that I realized how repetitive the hymns are at my church at home. Literally, we sing the same fifteen songs at home. 
As I said in my previous blog entry, I went to India last year with a group from my church at home. I really enjoyed attending a Baptist church in India that was so different from the one from home. Like my Presbyterian church, the music was very collaborative and everyone was encouraged to participate. I went to a Catholic church once for a funeral and I don’t really remember much of it except for the music was very straightforward and no harmony was used. This is the only interaction I’ve had outside the Protestant church.
Moving forward, I still enjoy religious music. I like everything from Cece Winans to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Here is one of my favorite contemporary Christian songs.





Comments

  1. Kathleen HolcombeJanuary 9, 2020 at 5:48 PM

    I also enjoy "A mighty Fortress is our God." That is so neat that you were able to attend a service in India! I bet that was an amazing experience. When I was in New York I went to the Tabernacle there for a service and it was such an unforgettable experience, especially since I love worship music to get into the mood of the service. I think it's good to have different worship experiences, I'm glad you've found a nice church

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  2. ChristinagsJanuary 9, 2020 at 6:11 PM

    I am so sorry that you had that experience at your church, some places just do not like the idea of change. I am so glad that the new church you have been attending has been much more of a positive experience, which is what church should be. I also really enjoyed the Cece Winans song; you can really feel the sincerity in her voice.

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  3. UnknownJanuary 9, 2020 at 6:25 PM

    I agree that music in the baptist culture can be somewhat exclusive. I have noticed it at my church and I just wonder if that is a common practice. I am glad that you found a church you really like!

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  4. Richelle KinardJanuary 10, 2020 at 11:49 AM

    Just like you I've had bad experiences at churches where they didn't want anyone to participate unless you were in their click. That was until my dad was called to preach! But I'm glad you got to a place where you are happy. Also I absolutely love 'Alabaster Box' it is one of my favorites .

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  5. Destiny EllenburgJanuary 10, 2020 at 3:01 PM

    I can relate to your frustration with your former church. Sometimes, a church may just not be the right one, and I'm glad to hear you have found a new church home! I love it when the whole congregation can come together to make music and introduce new ideas. Otherwise, it can feel extremely boring and repetitive, like you said.

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  6. Hannah CheathamJanuary 10, 2020 at 10:16 PM

    It's sad to me that the musical atmosphere at that church has become toxic. Toxicity is never a good thing. But I am glad you've found a place where you feel much more welcome and appreciated as the artist you are! I hope all goes well in the future!

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