News

Church choirs to perform 'Festival of Hymns'

By Bill Moss, Published: April 10, 2015

Hendersonville Presbyterian Church will host “A Festival of Hymns: the Writers Tell Their Stories” by Hal Hopson, during the 10:55 a.m. service on Sunday.

The choir will sing 11 hymns as the “composers”—in period costumes—share their faith stories.

The service begins with “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” by Bishop Ambrose, who lived from 340 until 397, and whose story will be told by Bill Nagle. Then follows “A Mighty Fortress is Our God,” by Martin Luther, 1483–1546 (Stephen Byrd); “Clap Your Hands,” by John Calvin, 1509–1564 (David Garrison); “O God Our Help in Ages Past,” by Isaac Watts, 1674–1748 (Bill Campbell); “O for a Thousand tongues to Sing,” by Charles Wesley, 1707–1788 (John Connet); “Now Thank We All Our God,” by Catherine Winkworth, 1827–1878 (Lori Connet); “Shall We Gather at the River,” by Robert Lowry, 1826–1899 (Sam Elliott); “Blessed Assurance, Jesus is Mine,” by Fanny Crosby 1820–1915 (Karey Garrison); “Guide My Feet,” by John Wesley Work, 1871–1925 (Ronnie Pepper); “When We are Living,” by Roberto Escamilla, b. 1931 (Larry Mobley); and “Lord of the Dance,” by Sydney Carter, b.1915 (John Lampley). The part of the Traveling Pilgrim who introduces and concludes the narrative is played by Belinda Winkle.
The Adult Choir, directed by Director of Music/Organist Gayle Stepp, will be joined in the final five hymns by the Children’s Choir, directed by Marcia Elliott. There will be handbell accompaniment by Karen Grady and Marguerite Martin and recorder descants by Janet Briner. Soloists are Margie Capell and Cathey Ridings. Pianist John Bayne will play the recessional hymn. The cast is directed by Karey Garrison and costumes are by Belinda Winkle, Anne Carlin and Marilyn Frenier.
At the 8:30 Chapel Service, music will be by Violinist Lillian Hall and Soloist Margie Capell, both accompanied by Gayle Stepp on the piano.
Senior Pastor, the Rev. Dr. Bill Campbell will preach at both services.
Child care is provided. The church is located at the corner of Seventh Avenue and North Grove Street.