Congregational singing has been a vital part of my spiritual life. One of my earliest memories is singing the refrain of Richard Hillert's canticle, “Worthy is Christ.” It has been a pleasure to lead, encourage, teach, and celebrate congregational singing. The examples below are from Our Redeemer Lutheran in Dallas, where I was music director for 13 years.
This includes our school choir and congregation on a Sunday morning. Yes, Lutherans will actually sing ten stanzas of a 16th century hymn. The purpose is to let the word of Christ dwell in us richly through the singing of hymns.
Recorded on Easter Sunday 2024 with full brass and instrumental ensemble.
One of my absolute favorite Lutheran hymns. I provided an improvised introduction and text interpretation of stanza 5.
I’ve always loved this paraphrase of Psalm 23 by Henry Baker.
One of my favorite Advent hymns. I love how the congregation could sing a cappella without any organ help.