I recently got an email from the Threshold Choir, a wonderful singing community I used to participate in founded by Kate Munger in El Cerrito, California. Choirs have now formed in many places throughout the United States and Sussex, England and new ones are being created all the time.
What makes The Threshold Choir special is that it was specifically formed to comfort the sick and dying. Choir members learn songs in 2-4 part harmony and "perform" them (offer them) at people's bedsides. They sing in pairs or in small groups at hospices, hospitals, nursing homes, and private homes by the invitation of the family or the person's caregivers. Sometimes the family is present when they sing, and they sing as much for them as for the person who is in bed. The service is provided for free although donations are gratefully accepted.
It's a wonderful experience to be sung to like this. All Threshold Choir members get to have the experience themselves and when I was a member of the group I remember it as moving, extremely peaceful and profound.
Here's a lovely video I found on Youtube featuring members of the choir I used to sing with in Santa Cruz. I still find it inspiring work.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
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3 comments:
All I can say is WOW! What a blessing for both the participants as well as the recipients. I wonder if there is a local group near me.
Very moveing. Thank you for shring.
How wonderful! I know that, when I was caring for my dad when he was at home in hospice, we played different music cds often and it really seemed to comfort him. He especially enjoyed his old favorites including the Big Band music he loved and the hymns he grew up with. Music is such a blessed gift and what the Threshold Choir offers is a blessed gift as well!
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