Worship and the Arts

"When you sing, you pray twice." - commonly attributed to St. Augustine.

Kent UMC is committed to offering variety and excellence in music as a central expression of our worship life. This commitment is the heartbeat of our music ministry. In the coming weeks, we are excited to introduce a worship band as a new addition to the rich array of music we already experience in worship.

A worship band is a powerful ministry that helps lead congregations into God’s presence, creating an atmosphere of spiritual connection and fostering community through music. This style of music is generally contemporary and instrumental, and it draws upon the musical gifts of our own congregation members. When used, worship band music will typically be placed early in the service so children can participate whenever possible.

At the same time, we remain deeply dedicated to the programs we currently offer, such as traditional organ music, sanctuary choir, bell choir, and intergenerational and children’s choirs. The worship band is intended to augment and elevate these ministries, not replace them.

Key benefits of adding a worship band include:

  • Enhancing Musical Variety: A worship band brings together diverse musical talents and styles, enriching our worship experience.

  • Encouraging Congregational Participation: A well‑prepared team leads the congregation in song rather than performing for them, making it easier for everyone to sing along.

  • Fostering Community and Discipleship: A team setting allows members to build relationships, support one another, and mentor younger musicians.

  • Increasing Musical Creativity: A collaborative approach enables creative arrangements that keep worship fresh and engaging.

  • Providing Opportunities for Skill Development: A band or musical team offers musicians and singers a meaningful way to use and grow their gifts in ministry.

  • Supporting Emotional Expression: Music is a powerful tool that helps people connect emotionally, allowing them to express joy, hope, or sorrow in worship.

We are excited to expand our musical worship experience and invite you to participate in ways that best fit your gifts and interests. If you would like to learn more or discuss ways to be involved, please contact Patrick Ferguson at pferguson@kentmethodist.com or (253) 852-3900.

Upcoming Events for Children and Youth

Our children (1st grade and up) and youth have already begun rehearsing to tell the story of Pentecost through song during worship on May 24, Pentecost Sunday.

All children and youth will also be singing on Celebration Sunday, June 14.  When our youth will also share a dramatic reading of The Errant Knight by Ann Tompert, with illustrations by Doug Keith.

Intergenerational Choir

Our Intergenerational Choir will be leading worship again on June 14! 

Practice will take place during Kids of the Kingdom (grades 1 & 2), Joyful Noise (grades 2-5), Youth Arts (grades 6-12), and Sanctuary Choir rehearsals.  We will combine all the groups in rehearsal following worship on May 31 and June 7, and this is also a time when adults who do not sing in the Sanctuary Choir can come to learn the two-part song “Like the Gentle Rain” by Mary Lynn Lightfoot. Let’s overflow the choir loft as we lift our voices in song. Singing with all ages together is a blessing to everyone.

New members are always welcome! Please contact Stephanie, our Director of Youth and Children’s Music and the Arts, for more information. smmiller@kentmethodist.com

  • Our Mitchell Carillon Handbell Choir rehearses at the church on Thursday evenings at 7:00 pm and performs periodically for worship services. If you are interested, please contact the church office at general@kentmethodist.com

  • The organ is an integral part of worship at KUMC. This 14-rank Wick’s Pipe Organ was installed in 1971. The instrument is used for leading hymns as well as solos and accompaniments.

  • Let Your Voice Be Heard!

    We truly look forward to seeing you and hearing your voice in our choir!

    The Sanctuary Choir rehearses Wednesday nights from 7:00 to 8:30 pm in our Music Room.

    The choir participates in worship every Sunday from September through June. The choir also sings at various events and services throughout the year.

  • If you play an instrument or sing and would like to participate in worship services as part of a Worship Team or ensemble or as a soloist, we would love to hear from you. Contact Patrick Ferguson, Director of Music Ministries, at (253) 852-3900 or pferguson@kentmethodist.com.

  • Our Worship Team leads us in music during worship. They will continue introducing modern worship and praise songs, and then, once allowed, the entire congregation will be invited to sing along.

    A number of “rotating” musicians are helping get us off the ground, and we welcome instrumentalists and vocalists who have the interest and passion for being involved in this kind of music. If you want to join us, contact Patrick Ferguson (pferguson@kentmethodist.com).

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