Benediction & Response. Bay Shore Church Worship. Sunday, June 23, 2024

Benediction Response: ‘Ever And Aye. Psalm 136
This Sunday, June 23 in Worship
St. John of the Cross and the Dark Night of the Soul
Dive into the teachings of St. John of the Cross, who speaks to the soul's journey through darkness and desolation to divine union. This sermon will examine the "Dark Night of the Soul," addressing the challenges and growth that come from spiritual dryness and doubt. Discover how these difficult times can lead to a deeper faith and an intimate encounter with God.
Special Music this Sunday!
The Storms Rage and the Winds Blow - Songs of the Sea
Ahoy! There are so many references in the Bible to the sea and how even amid the storms of life, Jesus can calm the storm. So, on this Sunday our Bell Choir, Chancel Choir, and guest musicians Kathleen Dyer piccolo/flute and Amanda Duncan percussion will be combining to present sea chanties and other Biblical songs of the sea. We’ll begin with Come to the Music, a rousing piece by Joseph M. Martin where you’ll hear the text “music is the sound of creation: crashing sea and mourning dove. Music is the voice of worship. Music lifts our hearts above. Music is our common language. Music is the song of love. Celebrate!”
Next, you’ll be introduced to a sea chanty that you will be able to learn and sing along - ‘Ever and Aye (Psalm 136) by Wilson/Reagan. It depicts the mercies of the Lord and ends in a “UHHpp!” which we’ll all put some heave ho into it and shout together! Then you’ll hear our bell choir play the theme song to Pirates of the Caribbean - you can’t get any more sea faring than that! After the sermon we’ll sing a Taizé inspired piece called Calm Me, Lord asking God to calm the tumult within our hearts and to enfold us in the Lord’s peace. Be Gone, Unbelief will be our Chancel Choir offertory. Lyrics by John Newton, author of Amazing Grace and set by Wesley Peters, this song really sounds like a ship on the briney deep with percussion and stating, “with Christ in the vessel, I smile at the storm!” Sea chanties are so rousing and heartfelt, so avast ye hearties! Come ready to hear ringing and singing and to join us in the rousing song!