2020 Annual Report and 2021 Ministry Plan

Worship and Music Paul Kasten
2020 has been a year adaptation and
innovation to meet unforeseen
challenges. The year began with the
celebration and observance of the
Epiphany Season. Grades 3 & 4 from
the Sunday School rehearsed as a
Handchime ensemble for a month and
joined the Adult Choir at Luther Manor
in February for our annual Valentines
Day celebration.
Lent began on Ash Wednesday,
February 26. Just 2 weeks later
everything shut down because of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Musically, we used a variety of
approaches during this unprecedented
time. Occasionally we utilized Cantors and recorded Mt. Carmel musicians and instrumentalists. For the
balance of the time, we used recorded hymns from the YouTube format. I received a great deal of positive
feedback about that: people let me know that it was easier to sing along with a recording of a full
congregation than with a single soloist.
In December, we put together a very well
received virtual Christmas Service which
combined elements from all of our usual
Holiday services. The service featured singers, a
String Quartet, organ, piano, etc.
Now that the pandemic is finally beginning to
wind down, we are going to change our
practice one last time: we began live-streaming
services in January. We will be using multiple
singers, instruments, etc, for each service. And
please note that I am already planning services
for when we return in person!
My lips will shout for joy
When I sing praises to you;
my soul also,
which you have rescued.
Psalm 71:23
Finally, I know you join me in thanking our Directors, Wendy Traeger and Will Ulrich, all of our Choir
members from the Adult and Handbell Choirs, the Sunday School Chorus, and our Cantors and
instrumentalists. All of these people have demonstrated tremendous creativity and positivity during this
difficult time. Music in this place would not be possible without their dedication and love for what they do.
Please consider joining us when we begin to rehearse, sing and play again: Mt. Carmel has a Choir or
ensemble where you will fit in!
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