The Hills (Trees in our case) are Alive with the Sounds of Music! Music is such an integral part of our church.  Music stirs our souls and draws us closer to God and one another. At our last men’s fellowship, under the leadership of Fred Frank (soloist for the Hour of Power), deep voices echoed throughout McKenzie Hall.  At their recent preschool graduation enthusiastic children sang to adoring family members filling our sanctuary. On Sundays the congregation sings louder with words to songs now projected on the big screen.  The choir and musicians sound clearer thanks to the new sound system.  I am happy to report that two special musical events are scheduled during the summer. On the 4th of July at 10:30 AM, which happens to fall on a Sunday this year, the New Sounds of Worship, under the Leadership of Isy Martin Jr., will lead us in singing familiar hymns and patriotic songs.  Wear red, white and blue and come ready to celebrate the birth of our nation as we give thanks to God for our freedom. Maybe we will even have ice cream following the service! On Saturday, August 28th from noon until 9pm we will have our first Community Cultural Music Fest.  So far seven bands are scheduled to play!  Jazz for Jesus, a 20+ brass ensemble, is one of the featured bands.  St. Paul’s Lutheran Church’s praise band will be joining us as will music groups from other churches. We are also awaiting confirmation from a BIOLA University musical group.  Admission to the music festival is free but there will be a charge for the various international foods as well as the games for the children.  A stage will be set up in front of the sanctuary and tents will be placed on the grass between the trees for shade.  Various booths will also be set up giving the day a festive atmosphere.  An auction and a raffle are being planned to help raise funds for our new sound system.  This will be a beautiful day under the trees where we will share something special with our community. We will need full participation from the congregation to make this event a success.  Set up will begin Friday evening and continue Saturday morning.  A lot of food will be prepared and served!  Please keep your schedule open to help us out on Friday August 27th and Saturday August 28th.  In July sign-up sheets for ways you can help will be at the church and school. Flyers to promote the event are being made. We are also looking for valuable items to be donated for the auction.  This event is a great opportunity to enjoy the blessings of God as we work together to create something wonderful. The trees in front of Griffith House will be alive with the sounds of music August 28th!  I hope you, your families and friends join us! Joyfully, Pastor Jim