‘Summer praise begins Sunday 7th July at 10am in the church/session house. All 
welcome to our informal summer worship group. We meet each Sunday morning until the end of August.
Music has always been at the heart of worship. Indeed it is difficult to imagine a Parish Church without music – the very acts of singing, playing and hearing connect us to levels and ranges of meaning which go beyond words.
Music weaves its way through our services, binding us together emotionally and lifting us spiritually. We regularly incorporate diverse musical elements into our services with guest vocalists, instrumentalists, and small group ensembles.
Music from the rich heritage of traditional sacred music along with that of different world cultures deepens our worship experience. African songs and drumming, Iona Community songs, Taize chants from France – music from around the world joins us together as Christians singing a joyful song to the Lord.
South Wishaw Church is keen to acknowledge and preserve our traditions, but also to explore how contemporary choral and instrumental music can connect us with our faith and enrich our lives today – this is where South Wishaw Music’s role plays an important part!
South Wishaw Music, formed in 2012 with Alan Mathew at its helm, provides opportunities for all to be creative in music – young and old.
Primarily through South Wishaw Church Worship Group music is provided for our Sunday Services, and we also go into our community (Nursing homes, groups etc) bringing our music.
It is our hope to expand the Worship Group into a community choir that meets during the week for the whole area of South Wishaw. This is something we intend to develop during 2013-14
Some information on our Worship Group
The Worship Group is an open group and we actively encourage people to come along to see and hear what we get up to at practices. You will find that we have fun, friendship and fellowship in abundance, and are inclusive and welcoming!
You certainly do not need to be able to read music to join us, although it would be an advantage. We have plenty of experience (and a bucket-load of patience) and look forward to imparting some of our knowledge of music and love of singing onto others – as nowhere in the bible does it say you have to be an expert in music to make praises to God!
Some questions you might have…..
How do I become a member?
Come to a rehearsal! Our Organist & Worship Leader (Alan Mathew) will have a brief chat with you, welcome you and you will have ample opportunity to find out more about the ministry of the Worship Group. We have no age limits (Upper or Lower!)
When are rehearsals?
Saturdays: 10am– 11:30am (approx). The Church Café runs at the same time (10am-1pm) and many of our singers continue time together in the hall after our practice has finished.
Do I have to be able to read music?
You do not need to be able to read music in order to be a member of the choir, although it is an advantage.
Do I have to know how to sing in a group?
No. We ask that you come with whatever your experience level is and a willingness to learn and be of contribution.
How often does the Worship sing?
Apart from our Saturday practice we sing regularly at morning services, currently 11:00am. Usually this consists of a welcome song and occasionally a song at a later point in the service. We sometimes sing at other churches or locations in Wishaw – plenty of notice is given about this.
Do I have to be at every rehearsal/service?
We encourage our members to sing with us at every opportunity, although we know it is sometimes not always possible and know that within that context each one manages their schedule accordingly.
What does it mean for the Worship Group to be “inclusive and welcoming?”
Everyone is welcome into this group. Each member should come with a willingness to fully participate in this ministry of music and celebrate the message that is vocal music.
What is my responsibility as a member of the Worship Group?
Each member is responsible and accountable for managing their attendance at rehearsals and services, learning the music for the session ahead and coming prepared to sing and fully participate in this ministry.’