Staff Reflection

Music is one of the things that Wesley is known for. And the last few weeks have really borne that out. On Sunday, August 11, Shane Cantanho on keys and Ivan Vielma on vocals and percussion led our Praise Band on a musical journey of Latin-styled versions of some of our favorite songs. Both are right at home in that genre. Joining them were percussionists Todd Soo-Hoo, Marilyn Hasegawa, and Ryan Miyahara. With Dave Land on vocals, Ted Hasegawa on guitar, and Jake Shimada jumping in on bass. From the first notes the congregation was enthusiastically singing and some even dancing along. The band was greeted with applause after every piece of music.
The next Sunday it was our Wesley Jazz Ensemble's turn to wow with their tunes. The Wayne Adachi led band gifted us with versions of "Do Lord", "O Happy Day", and Duke Ellington's "Come Sunday". And in between there were worship songs led by many of those same musicians. It was another great morning of music! And another round of well-deserved applause!
And in between, last Wednesday our Wesley Ukulele Band was playing an hour of Hawaiian music for an assisted living facility near Cupertino that included many delightful hula dancers as well. A big "Mahalo!" to our Ukulele Band. We are certainly blessed in the music department. I can't wait until many of our musicians are showcased at Aki Matsuri on October 5 here at Wesley from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Music connects us in so many ways. Each one of us brings their own experiences, their own favorites, their own abilities. When I looked across the room and saw my friend dancing a samba in church, it gave me joy. When I heard our dear Ivan sing a moving song in Spanish, I shed a tear. When I experienced the lush harmonies of a big band piece, I was thrilled. When I saw the smiles of a group of seniors enjoying strumming ukulele music, I was heartened. And the fact that all these experiences happened either in or in the name of our church, that made me feel God's presence. Music is indeed a gift from God!
So let's say a prayer of thanks for the music at Wesley! God has graced us with creative and capable people to help us experience a wide breadth of songs, hymns, and spiritual songs. And I can't wait to get the Choir going again in September!