Dan Dorty • Director of Music and Organist

Advent is upon us and Christmas is hastily coming, bringing the warmth of love. Soon we will be rejoicing, singing “Gloria in Excelsis Deo!” I invite you to come to Derry Church this Sunday, December 8 at 3 pm to  join the Sanctuary Choir and Derry Ringers as we look to the nativity story, where hope — born of a virgin mother and wrapped in swaddling clothes — was laid in a manger.

We remember that a world once shrouded in darkness has seen a great light! Works include “The Angel Gabriel” for choir and harp, Paul Manz’s “E’en So Lord Jesus Quickly Come,” and Mack Wilberg’s beloved “Gloria in Excelsis Deo,” featuring choir, orchestra, organ, and percussion. Reflecting on Pastor Stephen’s sermon series entitled “How Great Our Joy,” the Sanctuary Choir will perform two arrangements of this well-known tune. The first, arranged by Craig Courtney, is for choir and string quartet, gently building to the final stanza. The second arrangement, by Mark Grizzard, employs mixed meter and a brisk tempo, incorporating choir, four-hand piano, and drums to enliven our spirits. 

As we reflect on those surrounding the Christ child, we will sing “We Three Kings,” “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” and Seth Bingham’s stunning setting of “Away in a Manger.” The Derry Ringers will perform Douglas E. Wagner’s jubilant “My Spirit Be Joyful” arranged from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Cantata No. 146, along with Sandra Eithun’s beautiful arrangement of the beloved “O Holy Night.” 

The congregation can look forward to singing familiar carols accompanied by the organ and orchestra, including “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Angels We Have Heard on High,” and John Ness Beck’s arrangement of “Joy to the World.” Featured soloists from Derry Church will include Charley Miller (Bass), Janice Click Holl (Soprano), Julie Miller (Soprano), and Loren Geeting (Tenor). A handbell quartet from the Derry Ringers will perform “What Child Is This?” in an exciting arrangement by Kevin McChesney. 

Come hear the story of the manger set to music, and let us reflect on the true meaning of love at Christmas. Lift your voices this joyous Christmastide with the choirs of Derry Church as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Join us and prepare your hearts for the love that has come down at Christmas!