Sing For Joy: Latest News http://www.singforjoy.org Sing For Joy expresses, through sacred choral music and thoughtful commentary, the biblical themes that are the basis of Christian worship for each week in the church year. This half-hour program prepares listeners for worship, reinforces their worship experience and, for many listeners, is their primary form of worship during the week. The musical performances "do the talking," while the concise commentary illustrates the meaning of the texts. http://www.singforjoy.org/rss/rss-image.jpg Sing For Joy http://www.singforjoy.org 200 96 en-us (c) St. Olaf College MARCH NEWSLETTER <p><strong>WINDOWS INTO THE STORY<br /></strong>In the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em><a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2024-03">March newsletter</a>, Rev. Alexandra Jacob takes us to Paris, to the stained glass windows in Sainte-Chappelle that tell the entire story of the Bible. Pulling in historical significance and her personal experience on a recent trip, Rev. Jacob shares how these windows, as well as the music you hear on <em>Sing For Joy</em>, serve as an entry point into the Bible, especially during this Lenten and Easter seasons.</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2024-02-27_SFJblog Tue, 27 February 2024 00:06:00 CST February Newsletter <p><strong>LOVE AND LENT</strong></p> <p>In the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em><a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2024-02">February newsletter</a>, Rev. Alexandra Jacob reflects on the intersection of Valentine's Day and Ash Wednesday. Come, start your Lenten journey with these thoughtful words by the <em>Sing For Joy </em>host!</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2024-01-26_SFJblog Fri, 26 January 2024 00:06:00 CST Thank You and January Newsletter <p>Thank you for helping us make our goal of $12,000 during our fall fund drive! We will send out an update soon once we have the final numbers gathered.</p> <p>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2024-01">January newsletter </a>is here! Come read about baptism and these special words by Martin Luther:</p> <p>&ldquo;Then let us not heed worldly lies nor rest upon our merit, but trust in Christ who will baptize with water and the Spirit, that we may life inherit.&rdquo;</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2024-01-05_SFJblog Fri, 05 January 2024 00:06:00 CST Christmas Special <p>We invite you to enjoy a special program of the St. Olaf College Christmas Festival on the theme <em>Promise of Peace,</em> featuring highlights from the 2022 Christmas Festival performance. You can <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2023-12-23">stream</a>&nbsp;the 30-minute program online now, or find your local station on our&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/listen/christmas.cfm">carriage list</a>. <em>Sing For Joy</em> host Rev. Alexandra Jacob is narrator for this radio broadcast.&nbsp;</p> <p>We are in the final stretch of our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">fall fund drive</a>. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/index.cfm">Give to <em>Sing For Joy</em></a> and help us make our goal by the end of 2023!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-12-20_SFJblog Wed, 20 December 2023 00:06:00 CST Support Sing For Joy! <p>As you enjoy listening to&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em> this Advent season, we ask that you consider giving back to the program that keeps peace and hope alive in your heart. Your gifts fuel this program &mdash; <a href="https://stolaf.alumniq.com/giving/to/singforjoy">you can give easily online today</a>! We aim to raise $12,000 in listener gifts by December 31 &mdash; your generosity will help us continue to produce and share the program with listeners around the world. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">Read more about our fall fund drive here</a>.</p> <p>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-12">December newsletter</a> has dropped and is available to read online now. It is about the joy of waiting for Christmas &mdash; and you don't need to wait a minute longer to read it!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-11-27_SFJblog Mon, 27 November 2023 00:06:00 CST November Newsletter <p><strong>Cloud of Witnesses</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>The <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em><a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-11">November newsletter</a> is all about All Saint's Day and Rev. Alexandra Jacob shares a story about her own saints and ancestors (or "cloud of witnesses") that she thinks of on this very special day.</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-10-30_SFJblog Mon, 30 October 2023 00:06:00 CST October Newsletter <p><em><strong>"The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters."</strong></em><em><br /></em></p> <p>The <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em><a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-10">October newsletter</a> is all about Psalm 23 and how these comforting and familiar words remind us of the steadfast love of God. Don't forget to tune in to the October 15 program to hear two different musical settings of this psalm!&nbsp;</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-09-29_SFJblog Fri, 29 September 2023 00:06:00 CST September Newsletter <p><em><strong>&ldquo;Beloved, God&rsquo;s chosen, put on as a garment<br />compassion, forgiveness, and goodness of heart.<br />Above all, before all, let love be your raiment<br />that binds into one every dissonant part.&rdquo;<br /></strong></em><strong>-Susan Palo Cherwien, lyricist</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>In the <em>Sing For Joy </em><a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-09">September newsletter</a>, Rev. Alexandra Jacob reflects on a special hymn that is part of the September 10 program, as well as the departure of a member of the <em>Sing For Joy </em>team.</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-08-30_SFJblog Wed, 30 August 2023 00:06:00 CST August Newsletter <p><em><strong>"Jesus, Savior, pilot me,<br />Over life's tempestuous sea:<br />Unknown waves before me roll,<br />Hiding rocks and treach'rous shoal;<br />Chart and compass come from Thee&ndash;<br />Jesus, Savior, pilot me!" </strong></em><strong>-Edward Hopper</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-08">August newsletter</a> explores John Gould's arrangement of "Jesus, Savior, Pilor Me," heard on the August 13 <em>Sing For Joy</em> program. Come, learn about the brothers whose voices bring this recording to life!&nbsp;</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-07-31_SFJblog Mon, 31 July 2023 00:06:00 CST July Newsletter <p><em><strong>"<span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">I imagine that you have landscapes of your own that inspire this kind of awe and gratitude. Our </span></strong></em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;">Sing For Joy</span></strong><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 12px;"> listener base is scattered all across the world, and it would be remarkable to gather images of all the beautiful places that we call home!</span>" </strong></em><strong>-Rev. Alexandra Jacob</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>Summer may be short in Minnesota, but the landscapes (and the warm weather!) keep our cups full for the long winter months. In the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-07">July newsletter</a>, Rev. Alexandra shares one of her highlights of the summer and invites readers to reflect on the landscapes that remind them of God's grace.</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-06-30_SFJblog Fri, 30 June 2023 00:06:00 CST June Newsletter <p><em><strong>"It has been a delightful first year as host of Sing For Joy, and I give thanks for the opportunity to be in community with each of you through the airwaves each week." </strong></em><strong>-Rev. Alexandra Jacob</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>Rev. Alexandra Jacob and her husband -- and our music director -- Andrew Jacob have made it one full trip around the sun as part of the SFJ team! Join her in pausing for reflection by reading her words in the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-06">June newsletter</a>, now available online. Cheers to 525,600 minutes, and many more to come!</p> <p>Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-06-01_SFJblog Thu, 01 June 2023 00:06:00 CST Spring Fund Drive + May Newsletter <p><em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;has now&nbsp;<em>almost</em>&nbsp;made it one full trip around the sun with our new host, Rev. Alexandra Jacob, and music director, Andrew Jacob. In that time, we have recorded 54 shows, coordinated&nbsp;11 newsletter deadlines and even attended three hymn festivals (did you join us for one this spring?). Thank you for your kind and encouraging letters this past year, welcoming the Jacobs to the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>community. After all, it is&nbsp;<em>you</em>, the listeners and supporters of our program that made&nbsp;this last year possible &mdash; you've been fueling us with both enthusiasm and financial support for&nbsp;nearly 70 years!</p> <p><strong>Our spring fund drive runs now through May 31; we aim to bring in $10,000 to wrap up our fiscal year.&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://stolaf.alumniq.com/giving/to/singforjoy" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://stolaf.alumniq.com/giving/to/singforjoy&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1682994316755000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2obFfl3pSyfN_4gWq4oyFv">If you have the capacity to give, we are grateful for contributions of any amount.</a>Thank you for supporting&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;and making it possible for us to bring you the best in sacred choral music.</p> <p><strong>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-05">May newsletter</a> is available online</strong>. Come and hear how Rev. Alexandra begins preparing for a sermon &mdash; it involves grammar! &mdash; and find out some of the highlights that will be heard on SFJ this month.&nbsp;</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-05-01_SFJblog Mon, 01 May 2023 00:06:00 CST Hymn Festivals <p>Thanks to everyone who joined us at the April SFJ Hymn Festival in West St. Paul at Augustana Lutheran Church. With over 250 people in attendance and two choirs, it was a joyous Eastertide afternoon spent in reflection and song. Our music director, Andy Jacob, who serves as the organist at Augustana Lutheran Church, lead the hymn festival from the organ bench. Between hymns and choral anthems, Rev. Alexandra Jacob provided reflections on our theme of <em>Risen With Christ. </em>Anton Armstrong conducted the choirs of Augustana and Westminster Presbyterian Church, Minneapolis. Together, we explored hymnody for the Easter season, catching glimpses into the rich biblical narratives of the resurrected Christ.&nbsp;</p> <p>Visit our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/St.Olaf.Sing.For.Joy">Facebook page</a> for photos from the event!</p> <p>The third hymn festival of 2023 will take place on Friday, May 12 at 6:30pm in Indianapolis, at<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.northminster-indy.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.northminster-indy.org/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1674434005484000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1kgO1FZK4h6YlUZjncUtbF">Northminster Presbyterian Church</a><strong>. </strong>This festival will be run by the <a href="https://www.indyago.org/">American Guild of Organists, Indianapolis Chapter</a>.</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-04-27_SFJblog Thu, 27 April 2023 00:06:00 CST Risen With Christ: Sing For Joy's April Hymn Festival <p><strong><em>&ldquo;'Let all things seen and unseen, their notes of gladness blend; for Christ the Lord is risen, our joy that has no end!' </em></strong><strong><em>This joyful proclamation, from &ldquo;The Day of Resurrection,&rdquo; reminds us that the joy of Easter stretches far beyond the </em></strong><strong><em>bright moment of Easter morning!" -Rev. Alexandra Jacob</em></strong></p> <p>Join us for an Eastertide hymn festival this Sunday, April 23rd, from 3-4:30pm at Augustana Lutheran Church in West St. Paul, Minnesota. Our Music Director, Andy Jacob, serves as the organist at Augustana Lutheran Church; he will lead the hymn festival from the organ bench. Between hymns and choral anthems, Rev. Alexandra Jacob will provide reflections on our theme of <em>Risen With Christ. </em>The choirs of Augustana and Westminster Presbyterian Church, Minneapolis, join together to lead us in song with Anton Armstrong conducting. Together, we will explore hymnody for the Easter season, catching glimpses into the rich biblical narratives of the resurrected Christ. Join us for this rich afternoon of singing and reflection!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-04-19_SFJblog Wed, 19 April 2023 00:06:00 CST April Newsletter <p><em><strong>"My first Easter Vigil experience ... opened up a window for me, liturgically and theologically, to experience the full breadth and depth of the Christian salvation narrative in the span of a night." </strong></em><strong>-Rev. Alexandra Jacob</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>Rev. Alexandra Jacob reflects on the Great Vigil of Easter&nbsp;in the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-04">April newsletter</a>, now available online. We'd love to see you at one of our <a href="/singforjoy/read/post/258">upcoming hymn festivals</a> this spring! Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through May</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-03-31_SFJblog Fri, 31 March 2023 00:06:00 CST March Newsletter <p><em><strong>"I remember thinking to myself ... what a wonder it was to get to spend an entire evening simply singing hymns alongside fellow lovers of church music." </strong></em><strong>-Rev. Alexandra Jacob</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>Rev. Alexandra Jacob reflects on her first hymn festival as <em>Sing For Joy</em> host in the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-03">March newsletter</a>, now available online. We'd love to see you at one of our <a href="/singforjoy/read/post/258">upcoming hymn festivals</a> this spring! Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through April</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-03-01_SFJblog Wed, 01 March 2023 00:06:00 CST February Newsletter and Hymn Festival <p><em>Sing For Joy</em> is bringing back the hymn festival tradition in 2023 and we'd love for you to join us! Learn more about the <em>Sing For Joy</em> <a href="/singforjoy/read/post/258">Hymn Festivals</a> and where you can find us on the road in the coming months.</p> <p>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-02">February newsletter</a> is now available online. Come read Rev. Alexandra Jacob's reflections on Transifuration Sunday and the upcoming season of Lent.</p> <p><em>"Although we may wish to stay on the peak, it is in the valley that our Lenten transformation occurs</em>." -Rev. Alexandra Jacob</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-01-31_SFJblog Tue, 31 January 2023 00:06:00 CST We are bringing back the Sing For Joy Hymn Festival! <p>Yes, it is true, we are beyond excited to be bringing back the every-popular <em>Sing For Joy</em> Hymn Festival this year. As many of you know, former host Pastor Bruce Benson and music director John Ferguson went on the road with&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em> back in the early 2000s. They lead a total of nine hymn festivals with guest choirs and congregations around the United States, which was a highlight for them in their years with the program. We have received countless requests from listeners to bring back these community events ever since!</p> <p>Our new host, Rev. Alexandra Jacob, along with our new music director and talented organist, Andrew Jacob, will start up the hymn festival tradition again in 2023. Here are the details so far. We hope you can make it to one (or all!) of these!</p> <ul> <li><strong>February 5, 2023, 4-5:30 p.m. at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.trinityenglish.org/hymnfest.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.trinityenglish.org/hymnfest.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1674434005484000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3-94UBqizb8fqN7kRXlng6">Trinity English Lutheran Church</a>&nbsp;in Fort Wayne, Indiana</strong></li> <li><strong>April 23, 2023, 3-4:30 p.m. at&nbsp;<a href="https://augustana.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://augustana.com/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1674434005484000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2Box6udu58Tsz6dWl3keiH">Augustana Lutheran Church</a>&nbsp;in St. Paul, Minnesota</strong></li> <li><strong>May 12, 2023, 6:30-8:00 p.m. at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.northminster-indy.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.northminster-indy.org/&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1674434005484000&amp;usg=AOvVaw1kgO1FZK4h6YlUZjncUtbF">Northminster Presbyterian Church</a>&nbsp;in Indianapolis, Indiana</strong></li> </ul> <p>The hymn festivals are an important part of <em>Sing For Joy</em>'s public outreach and commitment to presenting the best in sacred music and commentary in many forms.&nbsp;</p> <p>Interested in hosting a&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>Hymn Festival in your community? Get in touch at&nbsp;<em>singforjoy@stolaf.edu.</em></p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-01-22_SFJblog Sun, 22 January 2023 00:06:00 CST January Newsletter <p>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2023-01">January newsletter</a> is now available. Come read Rev. Alexandra Jacob's reflections as we enter the new calendar year.</p> <p><em>"It is a gift to hear the ways that musicians have imagined and reimagined the narratives and truths of the Christian tradition across time and space.</em>" -Rev. Alexandra Jacob</p> <p>Thank you to everyone who supported our program during our fall fund drive!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2023-01-01_SFJblog Sun, 01 January 2023 00:06:00 CST Merry Christmas! <p>From everyone at <em>Sing For Joy,</em> Merry Christmas!</p> <p>We invite you to enjoy a special program of the St. Olaf College Christmas Festival on the theme <em>Love Divine</em><em>,</em> featuring highlights from the 2021 Christmas Festival with narration by <em>Sing For Joy</em> host Rev. Alexandra Jacob. You can <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2022-12-24">stream</a>&nbsp;the 30-minute program online now, or find your local station on our&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/listen/christmas.cfm">carriage list</a>.&nbsp;</p> <p>We are in the final stretch of our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">fall fund drive</a>. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/index.cfm">Give to <em>Sing For Joy</em></a> and help us make our goal by the end of 2022!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-12-24_SFJblog Sat, 24 December 2022 00:06:00 CST Fall Fund Drive + December Newsletter <p>The Christmas season has long been a time for traditions. Here at&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;we are dedicated to a very special tradition: continuing the legacy of Pastor Bruce Benson, who retired from hosting&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;this year, and Al and Beulah Rueter, who started&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em> nearly 70 years ago!&nbsp;We are grateful for Rev. Alexandra Jacob and Andrew Jacob for helping us keep the tradition of <em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;alive, but we are also grateful to our listeners for their continued support. As you enjoy listening to&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;this Advent season,<a href="/singforjoy/donate/index.cfm"> we ask that you consider giving back to the program</a> that keeps the tradition of great sacred choral music and God's word alive in your hearts.</p> <p><strong>We aim to raise $12,000 in listener gifts by December 31</strong> &mdash; your generosity will help us continue to produce and share the program with listeners around the world.&nbsp;If you have the capacity to give, we are grateful for contributions of any amount. As always, the <em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;team thanks you for your support and for sharing in the ongoing tradition of&nbsp;<em>Sing For Jo</em>y.</p> <p>"It is deeply countercultural to celebrate the passage of liturgical time, especially in a season like Advent, grounded in the countercultural practice of <em>waiting."&nbsp;</em>Read more from Rev. Alexandra Jacob about Advent, waiting, and her liturgical "New Year's Eve" countdown parties in the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-12">December newsletter</a>!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-11-28_SFJblog Mon, 28 November 2022 00:06:00 CST November Newsletter <p>In the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-11" target="_blank" rel="noopener">November newsletter</a> Rev. Alexandra Jacob reflects on All Saints Day and the text of the hymn "There Is a Land of Pure Delight," which, she explains, "assures us that death is not a gaping chasm or a depthless ocean; it is a "narrow sea." Come read the November <em>Sing For Joy</em> host letter and peruse the upcoming playlists, <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through December 25</a>.&nbsp;</p> <p>Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free tomonthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-11-01_SFJblog Tue, 01 November 2022 00:06:00 CST October Newsletter <p>In the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-10" target="_blank" rel="noopener">October newsletter</a> Rev. Alexandra Jacob reflects on Reformation Sunday and how God's grace through baptism calls us to discipleship and a life of gratitude. Come read the October <em>Sing For Joy</em> host letter and peruse the upcoming playlists, <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through November 20</a>. And get ready for some favorite hymns on <em>Sing For Joy</em>!</p> <p>Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-09-30_SFJblog Fri, 30 September 2022 00:06:00 CST September Newsletter <p><em><strong>An Act of Improvisation</strong></em><em><br /></em></p> <p>In the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-09">September newsletter</a> Rev. Alexandra Jacob reflects on a talk by Willie James Jennings about Christian hope as an act of improvisation. <a href="/multimedia/play/?e=3933">The talk</a> was part of the Conference on Worship, Theology and the Arts held at St. Olaf College this summer. Come read the September <em>Sing For Joy</em> host letter and peruse the upcoming playlists, <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through October</a>.</p> <p>Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-08-28_SFJblog Sun, 28 August 2022 00:06:00 CST August Newsletter <p><em><strong>"Mary's words are both a balm of comfort and a call to action." </strong></em><strong>-Rev. Alexandra Jacob</strong><em><br /></em></p> <p>As Rev. Alexandra Jacob points out in the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-08">August newsletter</a>, many Christian traditions will celebrate the Feast Day of Mary, Mother of Our Lord during the middle of August. Come read the host letter and reflect with Rev. Jacob on Mary's Magnificat (song), and how it "speaks to a world turned upside down."</p> <p>Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through mid October.</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-07-29_SFJblog Fri, 29 July 2022 00:06:00 CST July Newsletter <p><em><strong>"Lord, you have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God." -Psalm 90</strong></em><em><br /></em></p> <p>Come hear from Rev. Alexandra Jacob in the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-07">July newsletter</a>, in which she reflects on the remarkable gift of returning home and what that means to her as the new host of&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through August</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-07-01_SFJblog Fri, 01 July 2022 00:06:00 CST June Newsletter and Fund Drive Final Stretch! <p><em>"Thanks to Pastor Bruce Benson for many years of thoughtful, but also joyful broadcasting." -Wheaton, Illinois</em><em><br /></em></p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-06">June newsletter</a>, in which we share a collection of listener letters bidding Pastor Bruce Benson farewell. His last week as host will be June 5, 2022. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through July</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> <p>Thank you for contributing to Sing For Joy during our<a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html"> spring fund drive</a> and throughout the year. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/">Your gifts</a> help us continue to bring sacred choral music to listeners around the world.&nbsp;</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-05-27_SFJblog Fri, 27 May 2022 00:06:00 CST Spring Fund Drive <p>By now it is no secret that we are on the brink of change here at&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>. You read about it in the&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-03">March newsletter</a>, again in&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-05">May</a>, and now it was <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2022-05-08">just announced on air</a>: Pastor Bruce Benson is retiring from his role as host of&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>.</p> <p>Although we have changes ahead, much at&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;will not change. Like a house undergoing renovations, the wallpaper and fixtures &mdash; or people &mdash; may come and go, but the foundation itself will remain the same. What is the foundation of&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>? It&rsquo;s a commitment to bringing you the best in sacred choral music from choirs around the world; it&rsquo;s a focus on the church lectionary three-year cycle; it&rsquo;s thoughtful commentary that enhances the music experience; it&rsquo;s listeners and supporters like you.</p> <p>Our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">spring fund drive</a> runs now through May 31 and we <strong>aim to bring in $10,000 to wrap up our fiscal year</strong>. If you have the capacity to give, we are grateful for contributions of any amount. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/index.cfm">Your generosity is greatly appreciated</a>.</p> <p><a href="https://wp.stolaf.edu/news/new-host-music-director-will-lead-sing-for-joy-program">You can learn more about the new host and music director here</a>.</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-05-09_SFJblog Mon, 09 May 2022 00:06:00 CST May Newsletter <p><em>"Saying 'thank you' might be described as what happens when gratitude and honesty embrace.</em><em>"<br /></em><em>&nbsp;</em>-Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-05">May newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Bruce Benson bids farewell to his readers as he heads out the door for retirement. His last week as host will be June 5, 2022.</p> <p>Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through June 5</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-04-29_SFJblog Fri, 29 April 2022 00:06:00 CST April Newsletter <p><em>"</em><em>Artists like Bach and Beethoven erected </em><em>churches and temples on the heights. </em><em>I only wanted to build dwellings for people </em><em>in which they might feel happy and at home."<br /></em><em>&nbsp;</em>-Edvard Grieg</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-04">April newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson explores the "heights and homes" of church music. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through May</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-04-26_SFJblog Tue, 26 April 2022 00:06:00 CST He is Risen! <p><em><img class="left" src="/singforjoy/images/read/blog/2018-Easter2-thumb.jpg" alt="Easter2-thumb" width="150" height="225" />"Christ the Lord is risen again;<br />Christ has broken death's strong chain.<br />Hark, the angels shout for joy,<br />singing evermore on high:<br />Hallelujah!</em> -Michael Weisse, lyricist&nbsp;</p> <p>Hear these words from "Christ the Lord Is Risen Again," among other Easter favorites, on this week's <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2022-04-17">Easter Sunday program</a>.</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3685">Easter service at St. Olaf College</a> will be available for live streaming at 10:30 a.m.</span></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-04-17_SFJblog Sun, 17 April 2022 00:06:00 CST Holy Week <p><img class="left" src="/singforjoy/images/read/blog/2016_GoodFriday-thumb.jpg" alt="2016_GoodFriday-thumb" width="150" height="238" />Holy Week is full of somber yet rich music. Here are a few services and programs to enrich your experience in the week ahead:</p> <p>First we have the regular <em>Sing For Joy</em> program for <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2022-04-10">Palm Sunday</a>, as well as<a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3676"> live streaming of the service</a> held at St. Olaf College, Sunday at 10:30 a.m. (Central).</p> <p>On Maundy Thursday we invite you to stream two services live from St. Olaf College: <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3680">Daily Chapel</a> at 11 a.m., and a <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3681">Service of Holy Communion</a> at 8 p.m<span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2022-04-15">Good Friday</a>, a special <em>Sing For Joy</em> program has been prepared to offer the kind of music that honors the day meaningfully. An <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3683">evening service</a> will be held in Boe Chapel at 8:00 p.m. and streamed online. <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3684">The Great Vigil of Easter</a> will be streamed Saturday at 8:00 p.m., with special music by the St. Olaf Canotorei and organist James E. Bobb.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;And of course, you can tune in to <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2022-04-17"><em>Sing For Joy</em></a> to welcome Easter morning with Pastor Bruce Benson and jubilant music. The <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3685">Easter service at St. Olaf College</a> will also be available for live streaming at 10:30 a.m.</span></p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-04-10_SFJblog Sun, 10 April 2022 00:06:00 CST March Newsletter <p><em>"My heart asks, 'Am I stepping aside sooner than I could?'<br />My head answers, 'Yes. But that's better than staying longer than you should.'<br />Then, my head adds, 'Besides, you aren't the only person in the world who can do this, you know.'" </em>-Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-03">March newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson shares news about his upcoming retirement as host of <em>Sing For Joy</em>. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through Palm Sunday</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-02-25_SFJblog Fri, 25 February 2022 00:06:00 CST February Newsletter <p><em>"As we adjust now to another year, 2022, we might very well ask ourselves if we are in for another "dry" year, with drought that withers away concerts, withers family reunions, withers shared work places, parches social life in general; and if so, does Psalm 1 speak to that?" </em>-Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-02">February newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on the New Year and one of the Psalms this month about a tree planted by the water. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through Palm Sunday</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2022-02-01_SFJblog Tue, 01 February 2022 00:06:00 CST January Newsletter <p><strong>A Traditional Christmas</strong></p> <p><em>"Where the Spirit of Christmas is present, there will be joy, creativity, hospitality, grace, love and general goodwill. And in those settings, over the centuries, new music has bubbled up, been shared, then shared again, and pretty soon who remembers where it came from?"&nbsp;</em>-Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2022-01">January newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson discusses traditional music at Christmastime and what makes for a meaningful Christmas. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through February</a>. Would you like to receive the&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>free monthly email newsletter?&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a>&nbsp;today!</p> <p>Thank you for supporting&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy&nbsp;</em>during our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">fall fund drive</a>, which runs through December 31. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/">Give online today</a>!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-12-27_SFJblog Mon, 27 December 2021 00:06:00 CST Christmas Special <p><img class="left" src="/singforjoy/images/read/blog/2021-12-18_christmas_special.png" alt="" width="270" height="122" />We welcome you to enjoy a special program of the St. Olaf College Christmas Festival on the theme <em>All Earth is Hopeful,</em> featuring highlights from recent Christmas Festival performances. You can <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2021-12-18">stream</a>&nbsp;the 30-minute program online now, or find your local station on our&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/listen/christmas.cfm">carriage list</a>. Artistic director of the festival is Dr. Anton Armstrong, conductor of the St. Olaf Choir. <em>Sing For Joy</em> host Pastor Bruce Benson is narrator for this radio broadcast.&nbsp;</p> <p style="text-align: left;">From everyone at <em>Sing For Joy,</em> Merry Christmas!</p> <p>We are in the final stretch of our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">fall fund drive</a>. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/index.cfm">Give to <em>Sing For Joy</em></a> and help us make our goal by the end of 2021!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-12-20_SFJblog Mon, 20 December 2021 00:06:00 CST December Newsletter + Fund Drive Update <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-12">December newsletter</a>, full of Pastor Benson's reflections on the word "mark" and the joy and sorrow of the Advent and Christmas seasons. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through January.</a> Would you like to receive the newsletter by email? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> for our free monthly newsletter today!</p> <p>From everyone at&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>, thank you for listening to and supporting the program. Our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">fall fund drive </a>concludes on December 31. We have raised <strong>over $3,000 toward our goal of $12,000</strong>. If you have the capacity to <a href="/singforjoy/donate/">give</a>, we are grateful for contributions of any amount.</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-11-26_SFJblog Fri, 26 November 2021 00:06:00 CST Fall Fund Drive <p>The Christmas season has long been a time for traditions.&nbsp;Here at&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>, we are proud to create a musical tradition that touches the lives of listeners around the world, during the Christmas season and throughout the entire year. Perhaps you were one of the 1,300 listeners who tuned in online to Easter 2020, and then continued to make&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em> a Sunday tradition when home churches closed during the pandemic? Maybe you make Pastor Benson&rsquo;s newsletter message a special monthly ritual as you sip on tea? Or do you simply tune in whenever you need a little musical uplifting in your life? However you make&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;a tradition in your life, we give you thanks!</p> <p>As you enjoy listening to&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em> this Advent season, we ask that you consider giving back to the program that keeps the tradition of great music and Word alive in your hearts. We are in the midst of our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">fall fund drive</a> and<strong>&nbsp;aim to raise $12,000 in listener gifts by December 31</strong>. If you have the capacity to give, we are grateful for contributions of any amount. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/index.cfm">Your generosity is greatly appreciated</a>.</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-11-15_SFJblog Mon, 15 November 2021 00:06:00 CST November Newsletter <p><strong>The Wonder of Autumn, Music and Life</strong></p> <p><em>"Both autumn and concerts tend to leave people with mixed joy and sadness. </em><em>The beauty of each can be magnetic, mesmerizing." -</em>Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-11">November newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on brilliant fall colors, living in the moment, and of course, music. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through December</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-10-29_SFJblog Fri, 29 October 2021 00:06:00 CST October Newsletter <p><strong>Music is for Making, Not Contesting</strong></p> <p><em>"<span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 24px;">Music, it seems to me, is not much interested in contest. It is interested in conversation, communication, community.</span>" -</em>Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-10">October newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on the Gospel reading for October 31. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through November</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-09-27_SFJblog Mon, 27 September 2021 00:06:00 CST September Newsletter <p><strong>Grace in a Well-Paddled Canoe</strong></p> <p><em>"Grace, the giver of abundant life, like the heart and lungs that keep us literally alive, seems to flourish with rhythm." -</em>Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-09">September newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on the art of paddling a canoe, throwing a discus and creating music, and how rhythm and work blended together are at the heart of each art form. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through October</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!<br /><br /></p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-09-01_SFJblog Wed, 01 September 2021 00:06:00 CST August Newsletter <p><strong>Singing and Grief</strong></p> <p><em>"Music of the soul expresses the full range of emotion, a range that grows and deepens with human experience and maturity." -</em>Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-08">August newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson explores the topic of grief and singing and how grief can elevate singing to a new level. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through September</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-07-30_SFJblog Fri, 30 July 2021 00:06:00 CST July Newsletter <p><strong>Melody, Memories and Frogs</strong></p> <p><em>"Ah, the things that happen when one has songs and hymns lodged in the memory. All manner of things, including frogs, can jar them loose." -</em>Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-07">July newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on the experience of listening to a frog melody one evening, and shares his musings on remembered melodies and memory in general. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through August</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-07-01_SFJblog Thu, 01 July 2021 00:06:00 CST Thank You + June Newsletter <p><em>"No matter how high we might rise in our dreams, achievements or grandiosity, we do not escape our rootedness in the soil." -</em>Pastor Bruce Benson</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-06">June newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on the experience of working in the soil, and how that thinking can extend to the Bible and music. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through July</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> <p>Thank you for all of your gifts during our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">spring fund drive</a> and for gifts throughout the year. We met and exceeded our goal of $10,000 with a total of $10,450 in listener gifts!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-06-01_SFJblog Tue, 01 June 2021 00:06:00 CST Spring Fund Drive <p><em>The spring fund drive has now ended - we did meet and exceed our goal of $10,000 and will share the final results with you shortly. Thank you to everyone who contributed to our efforts, and of course to everyone who supports </em>Sing For Joy<em> throughout the year.&nbsp;</em></p> <p>As we start our <a href="/singforjoy/donate/drives.html">spring fund drive</a> on May 1, we are thinking of all the letters and messages we received during the pandemic. You shared how much&nbsp;<em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;means to you at a time when normal Sunday routines are put on hold, and how the congregational voices and music bring you hope. Your commitment to our program during this unprecedented time gives&nbsp;<em>us</em>&nbsp;hope, and for that, we are thankful.</p> <p>We aim to bring in<strong>&nbsp;$10,000 by May 31</strong>&nbsp;to wrap up our fiscal year. If you have the capacity to give, we are grateful for contributions of any amount. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. <a href="/singforjoy/donate/">Thank you for supporting&nbsp;</a><em><a href="/singforjoy/donate/">Sing For Joy</a>.&nbsp;</em>Your gifts helps us continue the work of bringing music, word and hope to listeners around the world.</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-04-30_SFJblog Fri, 30 April 2021 00:06:00 CST April Newsletter <p><em>"Song is truly the most democratic of the arts. We need no equipment other than ears and voices, no instrument other than heart and mind."&nbsp;</em>-Alice Parker</p> <p>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-04">April newsletter</a> is now available online. Come, read Pastor Benson's reflections on the story of Doubting Thomas, the power of listening, and wise words by Alice Parker.</p> <p>Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through June 6</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-04-12_SFJblog Mon, 12 April 2021 00:06:00 CST He is Risen! <p><em><img class="left" src="/singforjoy/images/read/blog/2018-Easter2-thumb.jpg" alt="Easter2-thumb" width="150" height="225" />"Had Christ, who once was slain,&nbsp;</em><br /><em>not burst His three-day prison,&nbsp;</em><br /><em>our faith had been in vain;&nbsp;</em><br /><em>but now has Christ arisen,&nbsp;</em><br /><em>arisen, arisen;&nbsp;</em><br /><em>but now has Christ arisen!"</em> -George Woodward, lyricist&nbsp;</p> <p>Hear these words from "This Joyful Eastertide" on this week's <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2021-04-04">Easter Sunday program</a>.&nbsp;Both spring and the love of God restore and give life - and for that, we sing Hallelujah!</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3499">Easter service at St. Olaf College</a> will be available for live streaming at 10:30 a.m.</span></p> <p>The <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-04">April newsletter</a> is now available online. Come, read Pastor Benson's reflections on the story of Doubting Thomas, the power of listening, and wise words by Alice Parker.</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-04-04_SFJblog Sun, 04 April 2021 00:06:00 CST Holy Week <p><img class="left" src="/singforjoy/images/read/blog/2016_GoodFriday-thumb.jpg" alt="2016_GoodFriday-thumb" width="150" height="238" />Holy Week is full of somber yet rich music. Here are a few services and programs to enrich your experience in the week ahead:</p> <p>First we have the regular <em>Sing For Joy</em> program for <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2021-03-28">Palm Sunday</a>, as well as<a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3490"> live streaming of the service</a> held at St. Olaf College, Sunday at 10:30 a.m. (Central).</p> <p>On Maundy Thursday we invite you to stream two services live from St. Olaf College: <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3494">Daily Chapel</a> at 11 a.m., and a <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3495">Service of Holy Communion</a> at 8 p.m<span style="font-weight: 400;">. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2021-04-02">Good Friday</a>, a special <em>Sing For Joy</em> program has been prepared to offer the kind of music that honors the day meaningfully. An <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3497">evening service</a> will be held in Boe Chapel at 8:00 p.m. and streamed online.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">&nbsp;And of course, you can tune in to <a href="/singforjoy/listen/2021-04-04"><em>Sing For Joy</em></a> to welcome Easter morning with Pastor Bruce Benson and jubilant music. The <a href="/multimedia/play/?c=3499">Easter service at St. Olaf College</a> will also be available for live streaming at 10:30 a.m.</span></p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-03-29_SFJblog Mon, 29 March 2021 00:06:00 CST March Newsletter <p><em>"Bring us, O Lord God, at our last awakening into the house and gate of heaven, to enter into that gate and dwell in that house, where there shall be no darkness nor dazzling, but one equal light; no noise nor silence, but one equal music; no fears nor hopes, but one equal possession; no ends nor beginnings, but one equal eternity: in the habitations of thy majesty and glory, world without end."<br /></em><em>-</em>John Donne 1571-1631</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-03">March newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on John Donne's writing -- a prayer that will be sung at both beginning and end of a <em>Sing For Joy</em>&nbsp;<a href="/singforjoy/listen/2021-03-07">program in early March</a>. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through April</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-03-01_SFJblog Mon, 01 March 2021 00:06:00 CST February Newsletter <p><em>"Those who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength,<br />they shall mount up with wings like eagles,<br />they shall run and not be weary,<br />they shall walk and not faint."<br /></em><em>-</em>Isaiah 40</p> <p>Come read the <a href="/singforjoy/read/letter/2021-02">February newsletter</a>, in which Pastor Benson reflects on Isaiah 40 within the context of a New Year still full of troubles - but also hope. Playlists are <a href="/singforjoy/listen/upcoming.cfm">now available through March</a>. Would you like to receive the <em>Sing For Joy </em>free monthly email newsletter? <a href="/singforjoy/read/newsletter-subscribe.html">Sign up</a> today!</p> <p>Thank you for all of your gifts during our fall fund drive and for gifts throughout the year.&nbsp;</p> http://www.singforjoy.org/read/ 2021-02-01_SFJblog Mon, 01 February 2021 00:06:00 CST