Pentecost and a Children's Choir

Today (Sunday) is Pentecost. It received a little special treatment in the worship service this morning. Not as much as at Langley UMC. The sermon focused on the story of Pentecost and the hymns mentioned the Holy Spirit in one way or another. The choir (which sings only rarely) sang two anthems. Pastor Ozawa wore a red tie but I don't think anyone knew why. (I asked if it was in honor of the day and he confirmed that it was.) One tradition at this church is that Pentecost is always one of the four or five communion Sundays each year.

Over-all, it felt much like I remember Pentecost Sundays in the States when I was young. They took note of the day, but it was all fairly low-key. My impression is that United Church of Japan congregations generally have a fairly low-key liturgy.

After worship at Murasakino Church we usually go downstairs for lunch. (Have we mentioned that the sanctuary is on the second floor?) Today we went a few houses away to the former parsonage for lunch. It was the celebration of the conversion of the house into an annex facility for general church use.

There were presentations about the history of the church and group singing of nostalgic folk songs accompanied by a very skilled guitarist. The grand finale consisted of several special songs presented by some of the Sunday School Children. (Click pic to enlarge.)