Maryl and I returned to Alaska for our 6th time but for the first time to Juneau at Valley Church with Pastor Dani Cherian. This small but vibrant church has a long history in Juneau and a great influence on the community.
We were able to celebrate our 49th wedding anniversary there – taking the scenic tram up the mountain and beholding the beauty of the city nestled in the valley, plus visiting the Mendenhall Glacier with the accompanying Nugget Falls (so spectacular!) Ending with sushi in downtown Juneau! What a great way to celebrate!
On Thursday night we met with and rehearsed with the worship team – a small but uniquely gifted team: Worship leader Hannah, keyboardist Brett, bassist and co-leader Kaleb (husband of Hannah) drummers Blaze and Dani, and harmonic (!) Rich (wow!) Sound guy Isaiah made it all come together nicely. So easy to work with and we all got along great! Maryl was on the flute and I brought my Yamaha electric cello again!
On Friday night we started our worship seminar at the church and got to meet more of the congregation. After a sweet time of worship we jumped into an intense time of teaching on the Vision of Worship. The response was wonderful – I think they’re getting it!
Saturday of course is hands-on teaching and working with the worship team. We invited other groups from other churches to join us too – the more the merrier! I have never worked with a harmonica player before but Rich took it to another level – he had harmonicas in every key – and he quickly and easily played spontaneously anytime I would turn to him for a song! I think more churches should consider using harmonica players (if they’re good at least!) We worked diligently on the flow of worship from a practical point of view and a lot of practice flowing from song to song. We released new songs in many as they learned easy and unique ways to enter into this new expression! It was great to see their faces light up as they realized that God was putting songs in their mouth through His Word and by the Holy Spirit! I think everyone was deeply impacted and challenged!
Sunday was a wonderful display in worship of the Holy Spirit touching and releasing all of us. Hannah did a great job of leading it out and being sensitive to the Holy Spirit – Maryl and I loved flowing with them so easily! I was able to lead some more songs and flow prophetically in song over the church and even the city of Juneau! When God speaks it is amazing how it all flows together and how deep an impact worship and songs can have on everyone! I ministered on the Song of Faith and got everybody SINGING and enjoying God’s presence. The congregational response was so beautiful as we ministered to one another and to Jesus!
We hope to go back to see what God is doing there in this precious church! God bless you all in Juneau!
In Him, Dr. Tim and Maryl Smith, Worship Without Borders
Ps we continue to minister in India but for security reasons we cannot post pics or details. Thanks for your covering prayers!