Diocese of D/Line holds music competition

Sounds of music filled the air, human hearts and minds were opened to God’s words. The sick people were healed, the downcast received new hope, the spirit of revival enveloped the air, bringing to the fore the work of Charles Wesley who wrote the first hymn of the Evangelical Revival during the great Whitsuntide of 1738. Charles and his brother John were “filled with the spirit,” and from that time onwards, the Methodist people have never ceased to sing. Indeed, “Methodism was born in song.”

The Diocese of D/Line joined in this heavenly rewarding business by organising her Maiden Diocesan Music Competition held on Saturday, September 22, 2018 at the D-Line Cathedral, Port Harcourt. The event showcased the fact that Music is an art form and cultural activity, which medium is sound organised in time. What happened during the music competition in D/Line, Port Harcourt buttressed the fact that God inhabits the praise of His people. Music moves God faster and brings down His presence among His people. This shows how music enhanced human response to God’s grace. David used music to make evil spirit depart from King Saul (1 Samuel 16:23).

Competition songs were in the following categories: Circuit Choirs, Circuit Junior Choirs and Soloists. Hymn 735 – When The Weary Seeking Rest (Tune: Intercession), Canticle 4, G.F. Handel’s “Sing Unto God” from Judas Maccabeaus, A Native piece chosen by the participating Choirs. For the Junior Choirs was Hymn 848 – Hushed Was The Evening Hymn (Tune: Samuel) and Canticle 30 (Tune B), O Sing Praises: Eight Soloists displayed their talents using G.F. Handel’s “I Know That My Redeemer Liveth from Messiah. The following Circuits were represented by their Circuit Choirs made up of Choristers from Churches that make up the Diocese: D/Line, Rumukalagbor and Woji Circuits. For the Junior Category, however, only Rumukalagbor and Woji Circuits were represented.

At the end of the competition, Woji came first in the senior category, while Rumukalagbor came first in the Junior Category. Among the Soloists, Julia Nwokocha of D/Line Circuit emerged first.

The adjudicator, Professor Onyee Nwankpa, KCW, who was assisted by Bro Victor Okon Frank, a graduate of music, commended the participating choirs for their dexterity. He reminded the choristers, “They are the Levites of today.” Hence, they should see themselves as those specially called by God to show forth His praise. There were high praises and singing of the Hallelujah Chorus led by Prof. Nwankpa, KCW. There was liberty on Saturday, 22nd September, 2018 at D/Line, there was freedom from bondage, burdens were lifted, the presence of God was felt, and indeed, God was seen to dwell among men and His Name alone was glorified.

The Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Rev. Dr. Etim U. Ekong, JP commended the Diocesan Music Director, The Rev. Nkem Ofoelue, KCW and the Diocesan Choir Master, Brother Chikaodiri Ibekwe for such wonderful outing and called upon all Christians to live a life of praise in order to attract God’s blessings.
Contact:
mcndioceseofdline@yahoo.com
ekongetim@gmail.com
08073138935