Sing the Song

We recently received a donation from the Sanctuary Choir of St. Stephen's Lutheran Church in Monona, WI in honor of the work done by their member, Dennis Douglas. They've graciously agreed to share their letter with you all. Thank you, Dennis and members of St. Stephen's, for your work and your story. God's blessings go with you as you start a new chapter of your lives!

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Dennis served as Director of Music Ministries at St. Stephen's for the past ten years. Prior to that, he had grown up and been confirmed in this congregation. He began accompanying worship on the organ in high school, and some thirty years later it became his job and his calling.

In addition to leading congregational singing with dedicated clarity, Dennis has a special gift for involving the gifts of others, whether it be a musician with an advanced degree or somebody who had played once upon a time in middle school. This philosophy, and the underlying "Soli Deo Gloria," embody a vision of many gifts, one faith. In broader synodical work, as well, Dennis sought to make the worship of our faith invitational, accessible, and meaningful for all.

Along with Mike, his partner of thirty years, Dennis was a well-loved "out" member of this congregation, which helped move us with ease to becoming an RIC congregation. It was for Dennis hat the congregation worked to memorialize the synod, then churchwide assembly, reaching toward the Board of Pensions for more just and inclusive policies. Dennis was also a founding member of our local Lutherans Concerned chapter and served as treasurer.

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Along with the letter, Pastor Utphall included the text of a hymn he wrote for Dennis' farewell Sunday, held just before he and Mike moved to Florida.

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"Sing the Song"

written for Dennis Douglas

Sing the song of love

that we share in our talents ev'ry day.

God made us to be musicians,

all the young, old, straight and gay.

Sounds of pipes and bells and trumpets

drive the dark of hate away.

Sing the song of peace,

God's children, that can heal the world's deep pains,

breaking down the walls between us,

off oppression's chains.

No more let our hearts be troubled;

Christ will lead us on the way.

Sing the song of life eternal,

glory in the risen Lord.

Holy! Holy! All saints' praises echo

with heav'n's highest chords.

Join the voice of all creation:

Alleluia evermore!

to the tune of Regent Square by Henry T. Smart, 1813-1879.

Text: Utphall, c2011