Music Ministry
The ministry of music is a passion for members of First Baptist. It is a vital part of personal and corporate worship no matter what age the participants are. Since First Baptist Church is comprised of such a diverse group of people, no single style of music dominates the worship experience. Both praise music and hymns are utilized for congregational singing and a diverse style of music is presented by the choirs, ensembles and soloists in the congregation. The pastors highly value and encourage the use of instrimentalists and vocalists of all ages as part of the worship service. Their goal is to develop and use the musical abilities of members so that they have ample opportunities to give offeringts of praise during the worship service. Consequently, in addition to the adults, many of our children and youth play and sing. The church's instrumentalists comprise men and women from youth to senior adult age.
The church currently has children's choirs comprised of preschoolers through children in the first through sixth grade. The choirs meet each Sunday afternoon during the fall and the spring. The often sing during Sunday morning worship and also sing with the adult choir. A special delight is the spring musical they present each May. Additionally, on Memorial Day weekend, the children's choir presents their spring musical to another congregation in Texas. Because of this vibrant ministry, many congregations have been encouraged to expand their own children's ministry and emphasis in worship.
Youth also have a passion for music. Our youth praise team is made up of youth instrumentalists and vocalists who actively leads the youth Wednesday evening worship service and incorporate contemporary christian music. The praise team also lead worship during the Autumn Family Fest and worship services of Kidz Kamp and other events.
Brother Bill rehearses the sanctuary choir on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. The Choir is open to anyone from youth to senior adult age. It is not uncommon for members of the church to have made a connection with the "First Family" by participating in the choir. Bill has consistently led the choir to regularly present special music for the worship services. Choir members also prepare for special seasonal musical presentations, such as Christmas, Easter, and Patriotic services. Newcomers are quite welcome in the choir.
Our senior adults also have a great passion for music and many of them actively participate in the JOY Notes singing group. Bill meets with them on Tuesday mornings for rehearsal. They present special music in the worship services and have given Sunday evening concerts and weekday concerts at nursing homes. After the Tuesday morning rehearsal they meet at a local nursing home where they lead gospel singing with the residents.