Since 2009, Jazz Sunday has been an annual celebration and worship every year at our church (except during COVID) on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent. The tradition continued this year om March 2 under the direction of Choir Director Faith York, a talented group of musicians, and the choir, as a tribute to Stephen Bither and the deep inspiration he brought to this event through all those years.

The opening rendition of “Stand By Me” was a poignant dedication to Stephen, lifting up prayers and heartfelt best wishes to he and his partner Bonnie as they sat in one of the front pews and soaked it all in. It was an embracing of love from the congregation and others to a man who has given to this church so much for so many years.

The rest of the service was filled by an inspirational sermon by Pastor Kathleen Decker Szakas and Mardi-style music from Barry Daniels (clarinet), Peter Dunphy (banjo, vocals), David Ellis (drums), Peter Lord (tenor sax), Ray Saperstein (cornet), Tom Wilbur (sousaphone), and Faith (piano).

A pancake breakfast followed the service set up and prepared by Carol Haider, Sharalyn Morrison-Andrews, Jean Meyer, Danielle Webster, Pat Acheson, and Steve Hill.

Thank you to all — once again — for making this happen!