God has cheered our hearts and minds through His dear Son, whom He gave for us to redeem us from sin, death, and the devil. He who believes this earnestly cannot be quiet about it. But he must gladly and willingly sing. —Martin Luther
Singing is an essential part of our worship. We cannot help but sing in church because God will one day rejoice over us with singing (Zephaniah 3:17). The book of Psalms (the inspired prayer book and hymnal for the Old Testament church) is our chief source of music for the service, along with a mixture of traditional hymns and contemporary songs. A group of singers and instrumentalists—usually strings, guitars, and piano—support the congregation as they sing.
Music connects us with believers from all ages, while also providing an opportunity for us to “sing a new song to the Lord” (Psalm 98:1). We include 11-12 pieces of music in each service. Some of our music is old, some is new. Some of our music is widely known, and some is regional or specific to our time and place in Middle Tennessee. Parish has also had a tradition of composing and encouraging new music since its inception.
Each week, we endeavor to say one thing throughout the worship service. The Scripture readings, music, and sermon all speak with one voice, with the music supporting the message. We usually open the service with joyful, energetic hymns and psalms which call us to worship God. By contrast, the music surrounding the confession of sin is usually more contemplative. We model our worship on the worship of heaven by singing “Holy, Holy, Holy” (Isaiah 6:3; Revelation 4:8) every week as we come to the table for communion. The music at the end of the service brings the Scripture into our daily lives, reinforcing the Word we have heard preached.
