Nancy A. Carnes
Minister of Music
Sanctuary Choir, Musicians, & Hands of Praise

The Message is in the Music!

The music ministry indeed has and continues to grow and benefit from the fervent leadership of Pastor and First Lady Hardy and the prayers of the saints. Pastor often states the “Vision is for an Appointed Time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it, because it will surely come, it will not tarry.”

Indeed, the NCACM Sanctuary Choir is one of several ministries that seek to stay and operate within the vision. In addition, there are two other groups (Hands-of-Praise & Musicians) that function under the guidance of Sister Nancy Carnes, Elder Andre Johnson and our advisor, Elder Anthony Johnson. As our ministry’s banner states, we strive to present a message in music through song, music, and/or with hands. Rick Warren stated in his book “Purpose Driven Life…”It is not about you.” This is a true statement as we (music ministry) minister not to ourselves only, but those who attend or visit our church. The Lord has allowed us to have for several years two major programs a year, where the music ministry presents a special musical/fundraising program in January “Parade-of-States, as well as, sponsor a community outreach program in the month of May. Both events continue to grow as we, in a small way, bring attention to the fact that our church indeed is “Christian” in ministry. The following is an excerpt written by Sister Olivia (staff administrative assist), that appeared in our church newsletter.

Highlight 1 - The music ministry had its annual program on January 26-28, 2007. The Hands-of-Praise, sanctuary and youth choirs ministered through songs and praise. Special guests choirs/groups included Chosen from The University of South Carolina, and Mr. and Mrs. Marcus Works along with the Capital City Chorale. During this event, the music ministry had its Parade-of-States fundraiser where each team member represented their home state or international homeland. The following geographical areas were represented: South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Texas, Oklahoma, New York, Massachusetts, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Virgin Islands and Panama. The teams presented their donations, displayed exhibits and provided food samples from their home states. Also, special acknowledgements and awards were given during this program to present and past choir members for their service, faithfulness and financial support to the church and music ministry.

Highlight 2 – During the month of May 2007, the music ministry sponsored a “Community Fun Day” to meet our annual in-and-outreach objective. This event is a vehicle the music ministry utilizes to invite and engage the local church and community in a number of fun-related activities. For example, there are arts & crafts, bean bag races, inflatables, 3-on-3 basketball competition; health-related information is available, and a variety of board games. Next year, we are anticipating subsidizing a carnival via securing corporate sponsorship.

Highlight 3 – The NCACM Music Ministry were honored to be in a workshop with national recording artist Bishop Leonard and Sister Scott of Tyscot Records. It truly was a special moment for our music ministry as we learned how to “Soar with Eagles.” We were in an all day workshop that culminated with a two hour rehearsal that prepared us to minister with Bishop Scott during Sunday morning service and during an evening concert. Songs such as “Bless the Lord”, “I Don’t Mind,” “Glad to be in the Service”, “Because of Who You Are”, and “Woke Up this Morning” blended apostolic heritage with the more popular songs of today.