“Why Should Music Matter to People of Faith?” was the theme of a special two-day, free event presented by the Hamilton Series Saturday, Nov. 11 and Sunday, Nov. 12, 2023 at North United Methodist Church, 3808 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis.
Dr. Jeremy Begbie (above) of the Duke Divinity School and the University of Cambridge presented a multimedia performance/lecture with that title at the grand piano in the church’s sanctuary at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11. His presentation was preceded by a free light breakfast, and after his talk there was a lunch that was also free to all who RSVPed to Events@NorthChurchIndy.com by Nov. 4.
On Sunday morning, Nov. 12, Dr. Begbie spoke at both of North UMC’s worship services at 8:30 and 11 a.m. These services also featured the world premieres of two anthems commissioned by the Hamilton Series by composers Reginal Wright and Craig Courtney. These original works were presented by the church’s primary choir, the Cathedral Singers. The 11 a.m. service was livestreamed on the church’s YouTube channel, which is easily accessed from the home page of its website at NorthChurchIndy.com.
Dr. Begbie specializes in the interface between theology and the arts. He is particularly interested in the interplay between music and theology. A professionally trained musician, he has performed extensively as a pianist, oboist, and conductor. He tours widely as a speaker. He is an ordained minister of the Church of England.
The Richard E. and Anna Lee Hamilton Series on Theology and Contemporary Issues brings speakers, seminars, and special musical events to North UMC on various issues.
The series was established in 2018 with a gift from the William E. Schmidt Foundation. It honors the lives and ministries of Dick and Anna Lee Hamilton at North UMC. Dick served as the senior pastor at North from 1974 through 1997 and was known for his work in the city and state on issues of social justice and Christian action. Anna Lee was a talented partner in ministry, adding her singing, teaching, and leadership skills to the church and wider community.
Additional support for the Hamilton Series is provided by Nick and Susan Blankenbaker Noyes and the Blankenbaker family, as well as gifts from individuals in memory of Dick and Anna Lee. North UMC and the Hamilton family are very grateful for these generous gifts, and they hope the public enjoyed both days of these events offered free of charge.
Stay tuned for info on the 2024 Hamilton Series events!
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