Rev. Janet Mueller

Long before you arrive at church each Sunday morning, members of another small but dedicated group of folks are already in the sanctuary (we learned about ushers last month). They boot up the computer, plug in the microphones, check the sound system, turn on the projector, get the chancel lights going, and load slides of Scripture, hymns, and readings (which they prepared during the week) for you to read on the screen. If someone brings a last-minute slide or video to show (usually during announcements) they load that in too.  They check equipment in the Audio Visual booth (and actually know what all those knobs and buttons do!) and make sure hearing assisted devices in the Narthex basket have good batteries and untangled cords.      These terrific techie ministers adjust the volume for each microphone as different readers, speakers, singers, instrumentalist, and preachers speak with their own unique voice quality.  They are mindful of the broad spectrum of listening capabilities and tastes of those in the pews and continually make adjustments accordingly. After the 11 am service, they take things down, store things where they belong, and turn everything off. They maintain a chronological library of past worship services for shut-ins and others to borrow. And they understand concepts like head room, dynamic range, and how microphones work (evidently there’s quite a bit more to it than most of us realize and they wish we’d all learn how to use them correctly). And did I mention they are all volunteers!     The passion of the four folks who perform this audio-visual ministry is quite apparent and infectious as they describe their work and dreams for expanding and improving their work - they’d be happy to tell you!     It takes about an hour to prepare the power point slides during the week in addition to Sunday morning set-up, worship, and putting things away. Hugs and thanks to Andy, Margaret, Dave and Dick for their meaningful contribution to our worship.  I hear they could use one more volunteer – so speak to any of them if you are interested!

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Bible Quiz: 

Gospel writer Luke said Jesus was about how old when he began to teach?

Last month we asked you with whom did Lot escape the city of Sodom:  The answer is c. his two daughters (Gen. 19)