Music is Key
Music is an integral part of worship at Central, and there are many opportunities for members to use artistic talents in the Lord's service. Central has singing choirs for people of all ages, as well as three handbell choirs and a variety of other ensembles.
Choirs
At Central, we believe that music and congregational song are responses that engage the whole self in prayer. Song unites the faithful in common prayer wherever they gather for worship whether in church, home, or other place. Psalms were created to be sung by the faithful as their response to God. Though they may be read responsively or in unison, their full power comes to expression when they are sung.
To lead the congregation in the singing of prayer is a primary role of the choir(s) and other musicians. They also may pray on behalf of the congregation with introits, responses, and other musical forms. Instrumental music may be a form of prayer since words are not essential to prayer. In worship, music is not to be for entertainment or artistic display. Music as prayer is to be a worthy offering to God on behalf of the people.
In addition to the singing and bell choirs, Central is fortunate to have many talented professional and amateur musicians among its members. Small ensembles frequently form to provide music for worship and other church functions.
Singing choirs at Central:
Children and Youth Choirs
Chancel Choir
Handbell choirs at Central:
Adult Handbell Choirs
Youth Handbell Choir
There are two ensemble choirs at Central:
Drumming Choir
Full-Body Prayer/Movement Choir
The Ministry of Worship, Music, & the Arts at Central offers a wide variety of opportunities for participation. Some of the musical presentations presented in the past at Central include Handel’s Messiah, Duruflé’s Requiem, Bach’s Magnificat, Cotton Patch Gospel, Rutter Magnificat, René Clausen Sing a New Creation, Pergolesi Magnificat, Children of Eden, Godspell, and Amahl and the Night Visitors.
Central's Organ is a 58-rank Schantz which is frequently used as a teaching and recital instrument by Georgia State University organ majors, and has been featured on the PBS program, Pipedreams. There is also a small, two-manual pipe organ in Rand Chapel.
Liturgical Art
Central's Liturgical Arts Guild encourages the creation of and use of visual art to transform and enhance worship spaces and experience. Regular art exhibits and workshops also help members explore the visual arts as a means of worship and expression of Christian faith.
