Dave Brubeck Concert

June 4, 2000

Congregations need precious moments that are held in common. Ours might include the anniversary banquet at the Marriott, John Wesley astride a horse, or the balloons ascending on Pentecost. But many are triggered by things musical. Which brings me to the visit of Dave Brubeck and his quartet. I have a feeling we will be talking about his concert 25 years from now (at which time the number of folks claiming to have been there will have quintupled). In a sanctuary where we expect the unexpected, it was impossible to measure the excitement. It could only be felt. The choir never sounded (or looked) better. Their energy was electric. Their smiles, contagious. It was clear they were having a great time. Then again, so were we. Rod Quainton said it best. Quoting friends from Chicago, Rod reported: "They had a great weekend. They especially loved Brubeck. Of course, we all loved Brubeck. If you didn't, you were an old scrooge."

And there was every indication that Brubeck and friends were caught up in the same chemistry. One doubts it happens every night. They always perform artistically. But there must be nights when it doesn't come together, symbiotically. As much as I enjoyed the music, I found myself enjoying your enjoyment. It was a great night to sit back and be the pastor of this church ... with precious little to do but "drink it all in."

William A. Ritter
Senior Minister