Music is an integral part of the worship experience at Berkley First United Methodist Church. Presently, there are two choirs who participate regularly in the Sunday morning worship service.
The Chancel Choir sings every Sunday morning, presenting the Special Music/Anthem of the Day. In addition, the choir leads the congregation in the singing of hymns and praise songs throughout the service. A smaller ensemble or soloist from the choir will bring special music during the Offertory time. The choir presents two cantatas each year, one during Advent and the other during Lent (usually Palm Sunday). Additionally, members of the choir have the opportunity to participate in community wide choirs that are assembled for special services in the fall and on Good Friday each year. George Jonte, Music Director at Berkley First UMC, directs the Chancel Choir and is also the organist for the church. Rehearsals are held in the sanctuary every Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. Membership in the choir is open without audition to anyone youth age and up. It is not necessary to be a trained singer to be a part of the choir - just a love for music and desire to be a part of this other dimension offering praise and worship to almighty God. For those unable to make the weekly commitment, people may join the choir just for the presentation of the seasonal cantatas. In addition, soloists and small ensembles are assembled to sing during the summer months when the choir is on their much deserved break.
The Children's Choir, called J.A.M. (Jesus and Me), is also a very active part of the music program at Berkley First UMC. Directed by Jennifer Butka, they rehearse on Sunday mornings after the worship service and sing once a month during the worship service. Membership is open to all Sunday School age children.
Expansion of the music ministry program is in the planning stages and includes the formation of a handbell choir and a praise team that will provide yet another dimension to the worship experience.
