I’ve been told before, but I’ll admit I’ve never seen it confirmed in writing, that one of the original purposes behind Songsters (Salvation Army church choirs) was to help congregations learn new songs. What would happen is this: the songsters would come together for practice during the week and learn new songs that the Corps Officers wanted to sing on Sunday morning. Then, when Sunday came the Songsters would be seated in the congregation. The song leader would get up, ask the congregation to stand to sing, and instead of hearing a bunch of trembling voices wearily trying to mimic the leader, there would be a choir of people collectively leading the congregation in the new melodies.
Well, confirmed or unconfirmed, consider this a virtual practice for the Chicago Central ARC Prayer & Praise Night that’s coming up this Friday. Below you’ll find the worship set list, along with some videos to help you get the gist of the melodies. You’ll want to pay special attention to two new songs (new to P&PN anyway): Your Love Is Strong, and Manifesto. Give them a listen, and come ready on Friday!
Chicago Central ARC P&PN Worship Set List
1. Justice Will Roll Down – Sandra McCracken
2. Your Love Is Strong – Jon Foreman (new!)
3. Manifesto – The City Harmonic (new!)
4. Christ Is Risen – Matt Maher
Justice Will Roll Down:
Your Love Is Strong:
Manifesto:
Christ Is Risen: