Welcome to the music and worship arts ministry of First United Methodist Church of Hickory
Members of the music ministry share in a very special role given to the Levites many years ago. “David also commanded the chiefs of the Levites to appoint their brethren as the singers who should play loudly on musical instruments, on harps, and lyres and cymbals to raise sounds of joy.”
Worship, both in music and other fine arts, is focused on God, not focused on us. Revelation 4 and 5 paints a beautiful and awesome picture of worship in heaven. Dramatic angels, (5: 2), props of scrolls and seals (5:1), flashes of color (4:3-6), shiny jewels, and loud singing of an ensemble of 24 members (4:9-11)!
Yet, worship is also communal. We need each other. Hebrews 10:25 reminds us to not “neglect to meet together…and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Congregational singing is a priority with music leadership and fosters participation by offering different ensembles, such as choirs, orchestra, praise band, and solo opportunities.
Music and worship arts at FUMC, Hickory, are designed to be culturally intelligible and fit the liturgical year, uniting the scriptures, sermons, and other worship elements. We strive to be rooted in the historic Church’s vast repertoire of songs and hymns, as well as new expressions from the present day.