To the editor:
Visiting many churches around the Tri-State Area, I've enjoyed sacred hymns with organ, but some churches have nothing but contemporary music, accompanied by mainly recordings.
They're difficult to sing, because they're mostly solo music from individual artists. They're not feasible for congregations, but these song leaders don't seem to mind singing alone.
I'm calling this new form "Karaoke Church." Old hymns are rare, but when used, they're altered with new chords and new rhythms. Disappointing. These are not a compromise. Participation is low and so is attendance, as disgruntled members have no say in this new change and don't know what to do!
One congregation purchased a brand-new organ, then leaders gave it away and turned the service into karaoke. Members are very upset. It's so sad. Any pianist or keyboardist can play these new organs without knowing the foot pedals as these organs have a "bass-coupler." This organ had this feature. Psalm 150 mentions praising God with any instrument, but the organ is easier for congregations to follow than any other. It's widespread use in churches since 700 A.D. is a testament to that. It's a powerful instrument, yet it delivers quiet, meditative music as well. Mozart called it "The King of Instruments." Played by a skilled professional, it's the perfect instrument.
The screen is focal in karaoke churches, so four-part harmony is gone. Even trying to sing melody is a struggle as only lyrics are displayed. Saving trees is the excuse for eliminating hymnals for screens, but where's the concern when good church buildings are torn down to erect modern buildings using trees?
Why was sacred music, written by godly people, cast aside? It's a disgrace to all past writers. Bible-based sacred hymns teach us and feed us spiritually, where many new repetitive choruses and feel-good songs lack.
How did church become a platform for anyone who grabs a microphone, and an organist's first qualification is to play for free? Leaders, please let the members decide. It's their right. It's horrifying that any unskilled enthusiast can take control by pushing a button, eliminating hymnals and skilled organists.
Most churches want organized, thought-provoking sermons, and hire pastors who are skilled professionals. If you want a variety of organized, uplifting music, you need to hire a skilled organist, as well. Pastors beware -- you could be next. There are many sermons available on audio and video.
I appreciate those preserving the organ, sacred hymns,and hymnals in the pews -- that's worked for generations. God led his people to write music glorifying him in the simplest, yet most fulfilling way. There should be a clear distinction between God's music and the world's. These entertainers need to sit down sometime and glorify Jesus from the pew.
Not everyone sings, but Christians who do should be included, not forgotten. Members miss Bible-based, sacred hymns of faith and using hymnals that can be adjusted to their focus.
It's inspiring, flowing music that everyone can easily sing, sing harmony if desired, and feel a part.
Mark Dougherty
Steubenville