“Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” — Isaiah 43:19
There is a new energy moving through worship at Glenn. Can you feel it?! Many of you have commented on it - a sense of the Spirit stirring, voices lifted a little higher, and a renewed eagerness to invite others into our life together. The call to “go and do” has always been at the heart of this church, but it feels as though we are listening with new ears these days. God is at work among us, and it is a joy to witness and be at work with you!
As we move forward together - past the pandemic years and into a new chapter of ministry - we want our worship to speak to as many people as possible. We must continue to plan and lead creatively, faithfully, and with care. In the new year, we will launch a Worship Life Committee to help shape this work. This group will gather diverse voices to think deeply about how our worship reflects our community and can reach those we have not yet met. Some members may already serve in worship, but I hope others who love to imagine, dream, and create will consider joining as well. Please email me if you are interested in helping explore new ideas to incorporate into worship. Your gifts and perspective matter!
It is an exciting time to be in ministry at Glenn, and the music ministry is no exception.
We have been blessed this year by the presence of Ezechiel Daos, who joined us over the summer and continues to lead with grace, humility, and extraordinary musicianship. We also celebrate Wes Griffin, whose passion for youth music has brought a remarkable surge in participation and joy. His leadership has helped create a welcoming, creative space for our youth choir.
We’ve also welcomed seven (and counting!) new Chancel Choir members since the start of the program year! If you’ve been thinking about joining or are simply curious, talk with me or a choir member - there is always a folder and a chair waiting for you.
As many of you know, Glenn’s Sanctuary is one of the most acoustically beautiful spaces in Atlanta. More and more musical organizations are discovering this, and Glenn is quickly becoming a hub for artistic life in our city. In the last few months we’ve hosted the Atlanta Gay Men’s Chorus and Atlanta Women’s Chorus, ensembles from Decatur High School, Paideia and the Atlanta Music Project, and look forward to welcoming back the Atlanta Baroque Orchestra, Kinnara, and the Atlanta Young Singers in the near future. This is a gift that can be taken for granted but is also one I hope we continue to celebrate, support, and share.
Upcoming Musical Events at Glenn
Atlanta Baroque Orchestra | Saturday, November 15 at 3pm
We are thrilled to welcome back the ABO, one of Atlanta’s musical treasures, for a semi-staged performance of Handel’s Acis and Galatea featuring Dr. Deanna Joseph and outstanding singers from Georgia State and soloists from across the country. Our partnership with the ABO continues to grow, and we are already looking ahead to a collaborative performance of J.S. Bach’s Ascension Oratorio here at Glenn on April 17, 2026.
Chancel Choir | Handel’s Messiah, Part I | Sunday, December 21 at 11am
Our own Chancel Choir will offer Part I of Handel’s Messiah in worship with a fantastic orchestra made up of professionals and some from our own Glenn family! For many, Messiah is part of what makes Christmas feel like Christmas, and this will be a beautiful and meaningful way to worship together. Invite friends and loved ones - our choir is truly one of the finest choirs in Atlanta, and it is a privilege to share this music with our congregation.
Youth & Alumni Christmas Program | Sunday, December 21 at 5pm
A beloved Glenn tradition returns, as our youth - joined by several alumni home for the holidays - offer an evening of Advent and Christmas music. This program always feels like a homecoming, and I hope you will support our young musicians who have prepared with so much heart.
Kinnara | Tuesday, December 23 at 7pm
Kinnara, Atlanta’s professional chamber choir, returns for a concert that has become a cherished pre-Christmas tradition. Expect a mix of familiar carols and newer works, all beautifully sung - the kind of concert that feels like a gift in the midst of last-minute wrapping and holiday preparations.
God is doing something beautiful here at Glenn. We are growing in faith, welcoming new voices, making space for creativity, and seeking to worship in ways that honor our tradition while embracing the world around us.
Thank you for your commitment, your presence, and your prayers. I hope you will join us in worship and in celebration during this rich season ahead.
See you in worship!
Michael