by Jennifer DeMello-Johnson
“Grant that what we sing with our lips we may believe in our hearts, and what we believe in our hearts we may show forth 
in our lives.” Taken from the Royal School of Church Music Chorister’s Prayer, I have recited this motto for as long as I can remember.
Growing up, my mother was the Director of Music at St. Clement Church in Honolulu, Hawaii, and as such, I obediently sang in the children and adult choirs until I relocated to the Midwest 20 years ago.
Fortunately I discovered Christ Church Cranbrook for its superior music ministry and have been blessed and honored to serve as both a staff singer and volunteer for the past 15 years.
As one of the many dedicated singers at CCC, our ministry manifests itself every Sunday at 10:00 AM through uplifting anthems, psalms and hymns that lead our congregation in worship. From Special Concerts to Choral Evensong to Sunday Eucharist, there is a place for everyone who wishes to join our various music ensembles.
The CCC Choir proudly performs a varied repertoire, including standard sacred choral literature from all periods. We are even mentored from time to time by guest composers who are brought in to coach and inspire us. Most importantly, there is rarely a week that goes by when a member of the congregation doesn’t remind us of how our music helps them heal from grief or rejoice in celebration.
But beyond the musicianship there is the fellowship and love from my fellow choir members that I have come to cherish. Regardless of our level of experience, we share an unprecedented passion to worship through song and a strong commitment to support one another on this musical journey. During an often hectic and stressful week, I know I can depend on Thursday evening rehearsals and Sunday morning services as my escape to the “Sacred Spa”!
Please come and join us by contacting our music director, Christopher Wells, at 248.644.5210, ext. 37.