Peace, Peace Peace

This is the video I really wanted to show you the other day, but I didn't think I would be able to share it with you because I recorded it vertically, and when I uploaded it to my Photoshop, it wouldn't turn!!! So I thought it was a lost cause. But after some research on Google, I found a way I could get it turned! Yippee!

It's from the boys church choir concert from this past Sunday, but it's of the last song the choirs sang. It is called Peace, Peace, Peace. It was a number performed by the Senior Choir, who lined the isles of the sanctuary (front to back, and it's a huge church), the Cathedral Choir (which was in the choir loft the area to the left of the choir director when you are watching the video), as well as the Chapel Choir (7/8th graders) and Chancel Choir (4-6th graders), who were standing on risers on the alter in the front of the church. In total, there must have been over 600 choir members singing! Talk about God's glory!!!

The choir director, an amazing woman who's name is Dr. Beverly Claflin, stood in the middle isle simultaneously directing all of the choirs for this final piece. They sing it every year, and it is by FAR my most favorite song of the season. At the end of the song, the entire congregation joins in singing the beloved Christmas carol "Silent Night". It always brings tears to my eyes, not to mention the chills that run up and down my arms every single moment the choirs sing. I am so grateful and so thankful for Dr. Claflin, and that my boys have had the priviledge of singing and worshipping under her direction. Both of them LOVE going to choir each week. Certainly, much of that is to socialize with their church friends. But deep down, Dr. Claflin loves and values these kids, and they know it. I will be eternally grateful for her and the impact she has had on my boys. She works sooooo hard for these kids. Puts in hours and hours every week nurturing them and pushing them to stretch beyond their limitations. Thank you Dr. Claflin for everything you do for Mt. Olivet!

Holiday Hugs,

Amy

p.s. The video is pretty dark, but what I most want for you to do is just listen to the music. Stop for a moment from the busyness of today, take a deep breath, close your eyes, and just listen. And when you're done listening, say a silent prayer of thanks for those special individuals in your life that have made an impact on your children. Our children are better people because of them.

Peace, peace, peace on earth and good will to all.

This is the time for joy, this is a time for love.

Now let us all sing together of peace, peace, peace on earth.

Silent night, Holy night!

All is calm, all is bright, round yon Virgin, Mother and child.

Holy Infant, so tender and mild.

Sleep in heavenly peace, sleep in heavenly peace.