Worship Resources for Funerals
While funerals have often been seen as family affairs or private activities, death impacts entire communities: both the worshiping community and the community at large. The resources below explore the value and vitality of funeral worship.
Top Songs for Pentecost
Six pastors and church musicians list their top songs for Pentecost. You can find most of these songs on Hymnary.org or YouTube.
Richard Bodini on the Pandemic and Senior Faith Formation
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced care facility chaplains to adapt. Your church can apply some of these best practices—and remember to include senior care residents and staff in congregational prayers.
Dileep Athaide on the Coronavirus and Port Chaplaincy
Pope Francis has said, "Without the people of the sea, many parts of the world would starve." Though seafarers aboard ships are essential workers, few people think of them. But port chaplains do. Your church can include seafarers and port chaplains in congregational prayers.
Chaplaincy Changes during COVID-19
The coronavirus pandemic has raised the profile of chaplains and profoundly affected how they do their work. Learn how you and your congregation can pray for chaplains and those they serve.
Christine McAteer on the Coronavirus and Bus Chaplaincy
During the COVID-19 pandemic, bus drivers and other public transport workers have been praised as essential workers. Yet they remain largely invisible to those with the option to travel by private automobile. Your church can include bus drivers and other essential workers in congregational prayers.
Lucie Eddie Campbell: A Mother of Gospel Music
James Abbington was inspired to insert an old gospel song before the eulogy at the funeral for baseball star Henry “Hank” Aaron. The reaction prompted him to honor the heritage of Lucie E. Campbell, an influential Black gospel musician whom many people have forgotten.
James Abbington on Planning Henry “Hank” Aaron’s Funeral Music
Although news coverage of public figures’ funerals often focuses most on speakers and eulogists, music is crucial. James Abbington thought pastorally while planning music for baseball star Henry Aaron’s homegoing.
Kate Williams on the Coronavirus and Sacred Music
When COVID-19 forced churches and schools to go virtual, GIA Publications helped church music ministers and music educators adjust. Some digital adaptations are here to stay because they help connect music ministers, worshipers, and music educators.
Vital Worship Grants awarded for 2021 by the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship
The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship announced today that it will fund 25 Vital Worship Grants projects to Worshiping Communities for 2021-2022 as part of its Vital Worship Grants Program.
Strong in Joy
Worship with the Calvin University Gospel Choir and the Calvin University Worship Apprentices
Tune Our Hearts to Sing Your Grace
Beloved Hymns of Faith Led by Calvin University's Campus Choir, Capella, and Women's Chorale