Singing for funerals is part of my music ministry.
It may sound morbid, but it comforts the bereaved.
As long as I focus on the music and avoid
eye contact, I am fine. This music ministry began
when I was a teen organist and choir member.
While teaching, I was unable to continue
this ministry since funeral times conflicted with
my work schedule. As a retiree, I volunteered.
It was seldom that I encountered anyone from
my “other life” as a teacher. It did occur at
odd times though. Choir members gather
one half hour prior to warm up and get
last minute instructions. Drink some water.
Remain quiet in our places as the music
Director played background organ pieces.
So, there I sat, front and center, awaiting
the processional music when I was startled
by a female voice who declared: “You teach
German, don’t you?” I felt several sets of eyes
from choir members wander my way.
Someone related to the deceased happened
to be from Germany and wanted to meet me
afterwards. It is astonishing when lives converge!
Who knew? What a small world indeed!
A small world, indeed… This has happened to me a few times over the years and it is astonishing! Singing for funerals is such a lovely thing to do, Mary Ann. A common thing for weddings, but how beautiful to be bathed in music during times when we need it most. Thank you.
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Bette, thank you for such an uplifting comment. Music is food for the soul. I agree with you that it is especially wonderful during those special times in our lives. Be well and enjoy a great Memorial Day Weekend. oxox
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Ditto! 💞
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Be well and keep the music going! 💞
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Very beautiful mom! Love you xoxo
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Emily, that is so nice of you to say so. Glad you enjoyed the post. We love you as well. Happy Memorial Day Weekend! oxox
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I love it when things like that happen!
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Valerie, thank you for such a lovely comment. Those least-expected happenings in life are great the warm the heart. Be well and Happy Memorial Day! ox
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How startling! I hope you had time to connect at some point.
How many people are in the group singing for funerals? It’s a wonderful ministry to be involved in. Our choir in NY sang for weddings of people we knew well in the church. Most of us were working and couldn’t get to funerals.
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Anne, thank you for your understanding comment. We connected after the funeral. My mind was focused on our music and certainly elsewhere when this happened. Rather amusing when I ponder it. The number who sing at funerals varies by the day of the week. Saturday funerals will usually have more in attendance. The number can be anywhere from 6-10 or so. We make some beautiful music together too! Be well. Happy Memorial Day Weekend. oxox
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