Good News from McClure – the Ministry of Music is alive and well and serving the congregation and the wider community!

Since McClure’s inception in 1969, there has been much “Good News” so choosing one story is a daunting task.  One piece of “Good News” that McClure’s people repeatedly mentioned when asked was the fulfilling Ministry of Music.  Although this ministry has seen occasional valleys, the music at McClure most definitely enhances the spiritual life of the congregation and is greatly appreciated.  It is one of God’s blessed gifts.

In the church’s first years, an Adult Choir and a Junior Choir were established.  The Adult Choir folded after seven years but reappeared with vigour two years later under new leadership.  It continues its ministry to this day albeit with a few changes of directors and accompanists over time.  One choir member, however, has shared her vocal talent for the entire 35 years of the choir’s existence.  Imagine that!

The original Junior Choir disbanded after one year, but following a hiatus of thirteen years, it too reappeared on the McClure scene.  It continues to be a blessing at the church.  Small or large in numbers, when the Junior Choir sings once a month at the Sunday worship services, the congregation is always moved to spontaneously applaud.

In 1993, the music director decided to divide the Junior Choir into two groups.  The older-aged members make up the Youth Choir, now known as With Grace.  This energetic ensemble of teenagers and young adults add a contemporary sound to the music offerings.

The three choirs continue to be valued treasures.  Although time has seen membership vary, numbers fluctuate and leadership change, the Ministry of Music remains an inspiration and vital aspect in the life of McClure.  The choirs are faithful stewards of their God-given gifts at Sunday worship services, at special services such as those of Christmas and Easter, at the annual Christmas cantatas and at events such as the church’s anniversary celebrations and talent shows.  They also share their love of God and of music beyond the walls of McClure by singing at venues such as city hospitals, extended care centers and the Alberta Legislature and at events like the Rotary and Kinsmen Music Festivals, the Northen Cluster Carol Sing and pulpit exchanges.  In 2003, with the production and release of their CD ‘McClure United Sings’, their music extends even further into the community when these CDs are given as gifts to families and friends at Christmas or for birthdays or those ‘just-because’ occasions.

Over the life of McClure, the Ministry of Music has been faithfully shared by its directors, accompanists, various instrumentalists, choir members and vocalists offering their talents as soloists or in small groups.  Their dedication enables McClure to shout from its rooftop the “Good News” that the Ministry of Music is alive and well and holds a promise of a music-filled future.  Praise be to God!