The Chancel Choir has played a vibrant role in the life of the Cagayan de Oro - United Church of Christ in the Philippines. It began as a small choir of the CDO -UCCP, formerly called the United Evangelical Church. Over the years, the choir was able to sustain its ministry through the guidance of dedicated conductors. With similar devotion, several accompanists dedicated valuable time and talent f
or this ministry. In the early 1990s the choir initiated the development of a new set of choir conductors. Responding to this initiative, a number of young choir members volunteered to train in conducting the choral group thus sharing their special gifts to the music ministry. Repertoire
The choir sings anthems chosen by the choir conductor for each service. The conductor’s choice, in close coordination with the church ministers, is based on the theme of the month. The Music Library that opened in 2008 has more than 3000 octavos and cantatas, thus providing conductors a wide source of anthem selections. Current Composition of the Choir
Membership of the choir is voluntary. The only requirement is the love of singing music to the Lord. Over the years, several adults have gradually started to join the group. At present, the choir is composed of about 50-60 regular members with ages ranging from 10 to early 70s. Most members are professionals coming from diverse fields as well as students in the local colleges and universities. Rehearsing on Fridays and singing together during the Sunday worship service give the choristers a special intergenerational experience. Beyond the regular activities, Chancel Choir also engages in the following:
a) Christmas Cantata (alternately with the other church choral groups)
b) music sharing in other churches or to a non-church audience
c) yearly outreach program
d) regular retreats
e) reflection before each weekly rehearsal
f) weekly Bible study
g) music camps and workshops
h) sports-fests
i) outings with the family, and
j) numerous personal celebrations and events
These activities offer various opportunities to enrich the members’ spiritual, physical and family life. These contributes to their nurturing of spiritual maturity, increasing their commitment to the music ministry, lasting friendships and a deep sense of group belonging.
