Today, I said goodbye to one of the smarter congregations I have had the privilege to serve as organist. For two years, the people of St. Luke's Episcopal Church in Boone, NC, have sung heartily for me, laughed uproariously with me, and served their community with single-minded determination. May they ever prosper, and may my successor Marc Longlois enjoy success after success as their new organist. I thank the Rev. Cynthia "Cyndi" Banks for her quiet leadership and commitment to both good liturgy and to people. She is the embodiment of the fact that it is possible to serve God with dignity and meet people where they are at the same time.
Several years ago, I posted a list of the congregations I had served. Since then, I have added two more; this one, and the First Presbyterian Church of Statesville, NC, where I served as Interim Organist for two years.
I guess two years is the magic number for my service in churches. But under the hood is the fact that I have to come to terms with my inability to provide the continuity I would like to. With my traveling and other craziness that comes with being a professor and professional musician, I have to admit defeat. My hat is off to my colleagues worldwide, who juggle teaching and performing and church-ing. I don't know how they do it (assistant organists, perhaps?). Well, I have learned my lesson. But I have enjoyed the support of many congregations who understand, and I depart with their blessing and good wishes.
Since St. Luke's is within walking distance of my house, I'll certainly see them again. They are worth seeing.