As I contemplated the theme for this edition of Worship Songs Online, I could not help but think about a family tradition we had when I was growing up. Every family get together would end with us all sitting in the living room with either my grandmother or aunt at the piano as we sang our favorite hymns together. What an amazing way to “Sing It Forward.”
Not that many years ago, many organizations and clubs had a time of singing as a regular part of their meetings. Of course, we continue this in the church in our worship services, but what would happen if we took the sing-a-long beyond the church walls? There are multiple studies that have shown the benefits of singing for a person’s emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Google it and see what comes up! There are companies now forming choirs and bringing their employees together to sing because it improves productivity (again… google it!)
I have the privilege of working within a community center where I can explore and try new things to enhance the Fine Arts Program at the our center. The concept of getting the participants in our music classes and workshops together to sing with each other once a month, or once every other month, is one of those new components in our program. These times will be not only for the kids, but for the adults enrolled in programming. Will everyone take part in the sing-alongs? I wish I could say confidently they will, but I do know the benefits for those who do will make it worth the time and effort.
In a society that spends so much time online and communicating through the screen, I feel we should be doing things to encourage people to connect in real life and doing activities where a screen is not even needed. Singing together is an easy way to get people to focus on a common message and a common mission. In order to “sing it forward” we must be singing!
Are you with me? Do we want to pass along to the next generation a community that sings together? Let’s expand our times to sing to be more than just worship on Sunday morning. The benefits of singing and participating in music should not be limited to just the musicians of the world. After all, God tells us all to make a joyful noise to him and to sing to Him a new song. He created it to be part of the abundant life He promises and it is our responsibility to pass that gift along.
Sing on, friend!
Kevin Boesiger
Boesiger is published with the Lorenz Corporation, Hope Publishing Company, Pavane Publishing, Lillenas Publishing, Fred Bock Music, Shawnee Press & Easy Choir Music.com. He also has new releases coming out with Choristers Guild and Hinshaw Music. Kevin has also spent time overseas in India teaching at the Asian Christian College of Music in Kerala.
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