Christmas message shared through music in Charleston

CHARLESTON, Mo. — For Terry Parker, there is no better way to share the message of Christmas than through music.

Coming from a family of singers, Parker recalled growing up and singing Christmas carols together. Among his favorite things was when his family and others gathered for a community sing-along.

For more than 20 years, Parker has sought to continue that tradition by organizing the Charleston’s United Methodist Church annual Christmas Concert. Each year the event has grown, filling the church’s sanctuary and uniting voices from across the community.

This year’s free concert is set for 4 p.m. Sunday at the Charleston United Methodist Church, 1700 E. Marshall St.

“This is a gift of love,” said Parker in describing the concert. “We are so honored to be able to showcase the many God-given talents we have here.”

In addition to organ and piano pieces by Parker, this year’s concert will again feature the Sam C. and Jane Goodin Memorial Handbell Choir under the direction of Janie B. Young.

Also returning to perform will be the Riverbend Brass Ensemble, directed by Kevin Miller. The ensemble includes Chris Starr, tuba; Paul Mills, trombone; Carla Hunter Marchant, french horn; and Jeannie Starr and Mike Mickel, trumpet.

“The brass ensemble is so skilled. I don’t think they know how good they are. They do all kinds of wonderful things,” Parker said.

Performing for the first time will be young soloists Ann-Oliver Renaud and Reagan Austin. Ann-Oliver has chosen a selection from “Polar Express” and Reagan will sing “O Holy Night.”

“Children and singing are a big part of Christmas music,” Parker noted.

And, of course, there will be a selection of hymns to be sung by the congregation.

Parker said the concert is a way for the musicians to give back to the community by sharing their music. It is also an opportunity for those attending to step back from the hustle and bustle of the holiday, he added.

“We want people to sit, enjoy the beauty of the sanctuary and take a break from everything going on. With the society we live in, we hardly have time to sit and rest so this is important to your mental well-being,” he said. “More importantly, this is a chance to remember the reason for the season.”