Music is at the heart of worship at Channing. Songs and hymns from the Unitarian Universalist tradition and other traditions–as well as a range of styles including modern popular, folk, jazz, and gospel–enrich the spiritual experience of the service.
Our Music Director, Stephen Deininger, lifts our spirits each week with selections to match the worship theme. Stephen often closes the service with an inspiring popular song that has us clapping, dancing, crying, laughing, or singing along. Examples include: “Winter Song” by Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson, “Friends and Foes” by Glenn Hansard, the well known “This Little Light of Mine” arr. by Mark Hayes, “Peace Train” by Cat Stevens, and many others.
As our Director since 2016, Stephen also leads The Channing Choir, a small group ministry in and of itself that also serves the church community (and sometimes beyond). Our choir is all volunteer, and everyone in the church and local community is welcome. No previous experience or musical skill is required. Stephen shares his vast knowledge and experience in a way that’s accessible, enriching and fun. Stephen’s philosophy is that if even one person is inspired by the music (including the choir itself), then the choir is a success. If you already love to sing–or just want to give it a try–come join us for practice and see what all the buzz is about! If you are interested and would like to explore further, you can contact Stephen at music@channingmc.org.
[Unfortunately, due to the pandemic and related issues, Channing does not offer the choir at this time in its services. We hope to return to doing so in the future as circumstances allow.]
Our hymns come from Songbooks and Hymnals for Unitarian Universalists.
Favorite Hymns of the Choir
- Blue Boat Home
- Everything Possible
- Fire of Commitment
- Go Lifted Up
- Hakuna Matata
- How Could Anyone
- If Every Woman in the World
- I’ve Got Peace Like a River
- My Love Will Be For You Forever
- Precious Lord, Take My Hand (Martin Luther King’s favorite)
- Spirit of Life
- Standing on the Side of Love
- There’s a River Flowing Through My Soul
- This Little Light of Mine
- 23rd Psalm Dedicated to My Mother (by Bobby McFerrin)
- Wake Now My Senses
- We’ll Build a Land
- When Our Heart Is in a Holy Place