The first time I saw this video and heard the magnificent sound of the King of Instruments at the beginning followed by the wonderful chorus of choir, handbells, and congregation, I was absolutely speechless!! BEAUTIFUL!!! I can honestly say that I've seen this video over and over and over and over again!! I can't get enough!!
What a wonderful organ Performance by the great organ and organist. Give the ORGANIST a medal it was a wonderful OPENING selection on Easter Sunday morning. Hampton V.a
This, to me, is what worship really is. I'm not picking on you if you prefer 'contemporary worship', but I can't see an inch beyond the hype and entertainment value. These people are praising, making their joyful noise and offering it to the Almighty. Notice there's no applause, just a loud "Amen!". They know who they are praising, and it's not each other.
@calebcme I feel you on that one...I am Lutheran but have my share of United Methodist friends and even a few relatives that are Methodist...I am able to put that aside and enjoy the combination of organ & handbells presented here and know they believe in the same God I do
@PfaelzerOrganist: The clergy wearing black robes with seasonal stoles and the acolytes wearing a surplice is actually pretty common in UM churches. Recently at my church the clergy have been wearing white robes with stoles, saving the black robes for Lent and funerals, but it all depends on the congregation. In small or rural UMCs, or contemporary services, the clergy often don't wear robes.
I don't think it could be Easter Sunday in any medium or large United Methodist church unless this were the opening hymn. (Even my church's contemporary service uses this hymn, I've heard.) I was just pleasantly surprised that the handbells could be heard!
