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Our American Roots
Live Performance
Free to the Public
Sunday, March 16, 2025
Doors open at 2:30 pm; Program begins at 3 pm
First United Methodist Church of Oak Ridge
1350 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Oak Ridge, TN 37830
No reserved Seating
Experience uplifting music and liturgical renditions from
First United Methodist Church Choir, the Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge, and Oak Valley Baptist Church Choir.
First United Methodist Church:
Josh Sumter, choir master and organist at FUMC, will present an overview of Methodism, including information on its Anglican roots, its founder John Wesley, and hymns and “rules of singing” by Charles Wesley. Sumter will also provide a brief history of psalm singing. The FUMC Choir will sing hymns such as “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling” and the anthem “Christ Has No Body but Yours.”
The Jewish Congregation of Oak Ridge:
Rabi Ahuvah Loewenthal shares her insights on “Distinctive Music for Jewish Holy Times.” Her brief talk will explore the profound themes of the Book of Lamentations, followed by a poignant performance of “Chanting Short Passages from Lamentations.” She will also discuss the significance of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, leading into a moving rendition of “Hashivenu.” Concluding the event, Ahu will highlight the “Joyful Music of Hallel”, accompanied by excerpts from the uplifting piece “Hallel Psalms”.
Oak Valley Baptist Church:
Joseph Greer, the minister of music will share a brief history of gospel music, followed by insights into the role of music in church services and special occasions. Additionally, Joseph will discuss the evolution of “new-generation gospel music.” The choir will uplift our spirits with performances of “I’m Determined to Walk with Jesus,” “Write the Vision,” and “Emmanuel.”
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We hope you can join us for this enriching experience!
This is the second program in the third season of Our American Roots produced by the Oak Ridge Institute for Continued Learning in partnership with the Oak Ridge Breakfast Rotary Club. The program is open to the public.
A reception will follow the performance. The reception will have savory appetizers and special traditional sweets prepared by the three congregations.


This event is made possible by grants from:
Rotary District 6780
Consolidated Nuclear Security, LLC.
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Sponsored by:
Periodic Tables of Oak Ridge
Altrusa International of Oak Ridge, Tennessee, Inc.
TN Arts Commission
Graphic Creations
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