By Sophie Hong
It is a season of incredible joy and energy for Glen Mar’s Music Ministry! Our choirs and ensembles are actively preparing for special services, looking ahead to Advent and Christmas, and growing deeper in both music and fellowship. We are profoundly grateful for the many musicians who share their gifts to make our worship services so inspiring and meaningful.
The Sanctuary Choir’s Special Concert
On Sunday, October 25, the Sanctuary Choir sang as a part of a special concert at the Church of Philippi in Hanover, Maryland. We were honored to join the Maryland Christian Choir for an evening dedicated to worship and community. While the concert was presented primarily in Korean, music has an extraordinary way of transcending culture and language to unite us in our shared love for God. We enjoyed praising the Lord together through this universal language!
A Special Advent Offering: Bach’s Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland, BWV 62
Looking ahead to this season of sacred preparation, the Sanctuary Choir is excited to present the first movement of J.S. Bach’s beloved Advent cantata, Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland (BWV 62). This special presentation of praise features a stunning arrangement for two oboes and two pianos created by our very own Kelvin Ying. Proclaiming the glorious coming of Christ, this sacred offering will take place on the Second Sunday of Advent, Sunday, December 6, as we lift our hearts and voices together in worship for Christmas.
Looking Ahead to Christmas: Appalachian Winter
Rehearsals are well underway for our Christmas cantata, Appalachian Winter by Joseph Martin! With roughly 60 singers participating, the Cantata Choir is bringing this beautiful piece to life with overwhelming enthusiasm.
This work was intentionally selected as our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026. Woven with American folk carols, Shaker hymns, and traditional melodies rooted in our country’s heritage, Appalachian Winter offers a wonderful opportunity to honor America’s rich musical history while reflecting on the hope, peace, and joy of the nativity. We look forward to sharing this special musical offering with the Glen Mar congregation this December.
Growing Together Through Music
We are equally thrilled by the vibrant growth across our Adult Music Ministry, Children’s Music Ministry, Youth Music Ministry, and Handbell Choir! Watching our children and youth discover their musical gifts in worship, and seeing our bell ringers flourish as a unified ensemble, is a true blessing. Each group plays a vital role in the spiritual life of our church family, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated leaders, volunteers, and parents who make these ministries thrive.
Get Involved!
As we step into this busy and beautiful season, we invite you to celebrate with us, support our musicians, and consider lending your own voice or talents. There is a place for everyone, and we would love to make music with you!
