The Message in the Hymns

“I remember when the missionaries found me. They were out tracting. I was just being polite to them so I agreed to talk. But the more I saw them the more I knew their message was a good thing. I went through several sets of missionaries and investigated the church for a couple of years. But I knew I just needed to join this church because it felt like the right place to be. I’ve never regretted the decision! I’ve been a member now since 1971.

I’ve loved music all my life. I went to Hartwick College in Oneonta as a music education major. I then got a job as an elementary school vocal music teacher in Ballston Spa, then later in Stillwater, and Hoosic Valley.

As part of my music career, I’ve also been playing the organ forever. I started as a summer substitute for the First Baptist Church in Gloversville. After I joined this church I started to play the organ here. I’ve been playing the organ for Glenville Ward since my early years of being a member. In fact, it has been so long that I don’t ever remember coming to church and sitting in the congregation! I’ve also been the organist for the stake for ~20 years.

Through all my time playing the organ, I have come to know every hymn in the hymn book. Early on I never knew much in advance what the hymns would be, so I decided I needed to learn all of them. Once in a while, I practice, but I’ve been doing it so long I don’t really need to practice.

I love the hymns. I love the message they bring. I try to follow the words in my mind and intercept them the way the composer intended. I just love the hymns. I love the message in the words. I don’t really have a favorite, but it depends on how I am feeling that day. If I had to choose one I think it would be ‘A Poor Wayfaring Man of Grief’. I love the message of that hymn. It talks about being kind to other people just like the Savior.

I am just grateful to be part of this church and share the talents the Lord has given to me.”

– Linda