Home

Music at St. John's

Philip M. Riley, Jr., Organist and Choirmaster

According to the canons of the Episcopal Church “music is to be used as an offering for the glory of God and as a help to the people in their worship in accordance with The Book of Common Prayer.”  St. John's uses the 1982 Hymnal of the Episcopal Church and “Songs of Praise,” a supplemental hymnal that contains many contemporary and traditional Gospel songs, spirituals, etc., some new to us and some familiar and comfortable.

The music at St. John's has been an important ministry and mission for many years.  The backbone of the program is the choir, led by Organist and Music Director Philip M. Riley, Jr. who came to St. John’s in 1979.  He continues to inspire the congregation with his talent and his strong Christian Faith.  The Choir provides music at the Sunday 10:15 AM service.  The Choir practices each week from 7:30 PM. until 9:00 PM. on Thursdays.  New members are always welcome, with no audition required.  The congregation is blessed to have a small pipe organ, which is an unusual feature for a small congregation.

The beautiful music presented by the choir is enhanced by the frequent addition of flutes, other instruments, and hand bells.  Among the parishioners of St. John's are a number of very talented individuals who make up the “Liturgical Band.”  They add to the worship experience for special services at Christmas, Easter, Confirmation services, and other important observances.  Contemporary music with strings and percussion is another feature of our worship life.  “Youth Sundays” involve services in which nearly all of the music is from contemporary sources, including original compositions by Steve Kriechbaum, John Williams, and others.