Terry Halifax
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Mar 08/02) - Delta Christians gathered last weekend in Inuvik to discuss the joy of song with sermon and how to blend the two.

A non-denominational music workshop was held at the Inuvik Anglican Church of the Ascension and was hosted by Bishop Larry Robertson.

"It's all about integrating music into our worship, so it works together with the rest of or liturgy and prayer, so we can get an overall worship experience."

Faithful from Inuvik, Aklavik and Fort McPherson attended the two-day seminar.

The bishop explained that music is an integral part of a Sunday service and should blend contemporary song with the old standards.

"We don't want to get rid of the organ, but we want to bring in the piano and the guitar too," Robertson told the participants. "The music of the world is changing and as we change, our music changes with it."

"Contemporary music is just part of our growth and process -- it's not a changing of one for another, but and expansion of the whole."

Robertson said he's been to churches where the hymns have been thrown out in favour of the chorus.

"I think that sadly lacks something, because our history is very important to us," he said. "Where would we be at Christmas without songs like Silent Night?"

He says some of the new songs will stand the test of time and some will be sifted out, but the blend of old and new will ensure a legacy of "new classics."

"Time will dissect the real masterpieces and they'll become the old standards."

The workshop detailed integrating contemporary music and working with people resistant to change and learning new songs.

On Friday night, about 70 people packed the hall for an informal sing-along with the aid of piano, guitar, banjo and percussion instruments.

Robertson says good hymn selection will move the congregation with appropriate emotion at the beginning, middle and end of the service.

"Music sets an atmosphere that allows the communication and presence of God," he said. "Music speaks to the soul and the sermon speaks to the brain."