An article for The Cathedral Times
by Keith Dumke, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Over my years in youth ministry and attending church and diocesan retreats, I’ve been blessed to experience many inspiring praise and worship music gatherings. While this genre of music differs greatly from the sacred hymns we cherish in the Cathedral—a huge thank you to our incredible choir!—I believe that all forms of music dedicated to praising God can connect us to the divine in unique and profound ways.
I’m no musician or singer, as those who’ve heard me in church can likely attest. And I am also quick to tell people that just because I can’t sing doesn’t mean I won’t sing! (Strange though, that I sound so incredible when I am alone in my car!) Yet, I firmly believe that even off-key singing can be a joyful offering to God. I imagine that God smiles, or perhaps laughs joyfully, at my enthusiastic attempts.
Recently, while waiting outside Mikell Chapel for a small confirmation service to begin for a Cathedral graduate leaving to join the army, I noticed the stained-glass window inscribed with “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord.” It sparked a reflection: What truly constitutes a joyful noise?
I believe a joyful noise is the collective expression of God’s people when they are gathered together. Whether we are praying, singing, playing, serving, laughing, crying, or sharing our stories, our creator hears all of it as joyful noise.
As our program year kicks off, our dedicated clergy, staff, and amazing volunteers are hard at work preparing for a year filled with new opportunities. From children, youth, and adult faith formation to a multitude of other ministries, guilds, choirs, and parochial entities, we're creating a vibrant tapestry of holy and joyful noise.
As summer winds down, let's gather in our sacred spaces with gratitude and cheer. Let’s remember that wonderful little stained-glass window and Psalm 100 as they remind us to “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.” Let's heed this call and let our joyful noise of praise fill not only our sanctuary but also our hallways, classrooms, conference rooms, playgrounds, our homes (and cars), and God’s entire creation.
Returning to church is more than just a physical act; it's a spiritual renewal, a chance to reconnect with God and each other and make a difference in this world. Let's approach this with great joy and thanksgiving.
Above all, don’t let anyone steal the joy in your own heart—knowing always that we are loved unconditionally by our creator. And then, let’s allow our collective joy and faith be a beacon of hope in a world that is often filled with difficulty. May it be contagious, spreading light and warmth to all those around us.
It is time again…let’s get together…Let’s make some loud, rambunctious, holy, beautiful, and joyful noise!
Let peace and joy abound!
