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The Christian Explainers, a group of South African performers of exceptional talent, have returned to thrill the members of St. Joan of Arc with their exciting and energetic music. These musicians and singers are inspired with a desire to spread their Christian beliefs in song. The joy in which they perform these hymns from their native country shows that their inspiration is deep and true.

The Explainers and Choir found a little time to catch the debate.

They rehearsed and visited with the SJA Choir on Thursday evening. It was a wonderful experience for the big choir. The African singers and musicians will be performing at two masses this coming Sunday, Oct. 3rd. Later on that evening, the SJA choir will be joining them at a concert in the SJA gym at 7:PM.

The SJA choir's rehearsal with this ensemble from Africa was a two-way experience. They taught each other some favorite hymns that will be performed together at the concert on Sunday evening. There is no admission charge for this entertaining group's concert, but it will include a free will offering to help cover their costs of traveling to the United States.

Many of the SJA choir members and other parishioners have opened their homes to members of this group and have found it to be a delightful experience resulting in a beautiful connection with their guests that will last beyond their stay.

As Thursday's rehearsal began there was the usual signing in, gathering music and greeting of friends. The noise decibel rose significantly as members arrived. The SJA choir often calls itself a "Large St. Joan Christian Community" organization which truly cares about its members by celebrating happy events and offering prayers and support for any concerns that anyone expresses. Every new member is met with welcoming arms and the energy in the room is often so thick one can see it. And THAT happens even before the music begins.

Then the choir went about doing their vocal exercises. Soon after, the Explainers (as they are affectionately called) were ushered in to applause and a piano fanfare played by accompanist, Nancy Stockhaus. The choir listened to them sing a solo and then joined in singing a hymn, "Blest In The City", which they had been taught during a previous visit. Later on the Explainers sat in with the group to sing one of SJA's choir's "signature" hymns, 'Highest Praise". The addition of those beautiful resonant African voices enhanced even the 70 strong-voiced choir. This will be a treat to be repeated at Sunday evening's concert.

The rehearsal ended as usual with a special prayer but not before the the Explainers taught a hymn by rote. A silent question was heard, "What, no music in front of us"?, and many cringed in silent panic. This did not last long as the energy which this simple hymn of praise exuded will play over and over in many heads. Quoted below are the simple lyrics of this wonderful praise hymn as a way to entice you to attend the concert with the Christian Explainers and the St. Joan of Arc Choir on this coming Sunday evening. You will not be disappointed if you attend this special event.

"We bless your name Almighty God
We bow before Your throne

and

JoAnn Potts is a retired music and English teacher/choir director and 30 year member of St. Joan's. She enjoys volunteering to assist Anna Vagle with music tasks one day each week; singing in the choir; writing her memoirs and poetry; keeping up with friends and family via email; visiting the North Shore and entertaining friends. JoAnn and Jim, husband and wife team of 50 years, are proud of their family of five children and nine grandchildren. JoAnn can be reached at jpotts@mn.rr.com.

We glorify your Holy Name
You are the Lord of Lord!"