Honored to Serve
Posted on Jan 25, 2018 by Heather Lewis
I was lucky enough to grow up going to church every Sunday. My dad was an Army officer and we moved every 1-3 years, so church was a place we could immediately be welcomed into a new community of friends everywhere we lived.
Interestingly, it was the years we lived farthest away that shaped my life the most. My dad was stationed in Stuttgart, Germany, for my 5th-7th grade years. We went to the post chapel, where I met Miss Auman. She directed the church youth choir where I sang in my first musical, and directed the adult choir where I began singing with my dad. She had the most beautiful voice I’d ever heard, but more importantly she made it so fun to sing that all of us -- kids, youth, and adults -- wanted to sing with her. I wanted to be like her, and remember over 20 years ago when I realized I had the opportunity as a new worship and music director to have the impact on others that she had on me.
I’m of course completely biased, but I firmly believe in the church’s role to help kids and adults not only take a walk in their faith, but also in their confidence. What better place to sing and speak in front of people, and learn to love leading? I’ve written before about Salem’s encouraging congregation, from the Talents Shared Staff Trax a year ago:
“I never cease to be amazed at the talent that comes from our pews, and the willingness to share it! We have such a large group of adults and youth who always say ‘yes!’ when I ask if they will lead us. One of the reasons they do is that our congregation is so very supportive, cheering everyone on, no matter their experience. I’ve had so many adults tell me how they would never have the courage to stand in front of people and lead, as they watch others encouraged to speak and sing with joy. Especially for our children and youth, the experience they have leading at Salem gives them so much confidence, and they feel the love you give as you show your enthusiasm for the sharing of their talents.”
Thank you, Salem family, for your talents shared and your encouragement given. I am honored to serve as your worship and music director.
Heather Lewis
Director of Worship & Music