The Handbell Program was established in April 2004 ringing a set of twelve Malmark bells (diatonic C Major from C5 to G6). Thirteen more bells were added in May 2005 resulting in a full two octaves.
Regular handbell rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 (except for Fellowship Supper nights). The Handbell Choir rings during worship several times throughout the year as part of the overall music program for the church.
Like a sports team, handbell choirs have a certain number of positions. We need people in those positions in order for all the bells to be played. This fixed number of positions, though, does limit the number of people ringing at the same time. Still, we need extra players who can swap in and out of the group -- sort of like "the bench" as we continue the sports team analogy. This ensures that we always have all the positions covered even when some people are absent. We invite participation in this program but it is important to understand that who is to ring when requires some advance planning.
How will we use the handbells in the life of the church?
- There are arrangements of hymns and other sacred music for handbells. These can be rung during worship services much the same way as the Choir sings calls to worship or anthems.
- Handbells can accompany choir anthems or ring descants for congregational hymns.
- A bell can toll in remembrance of those whose earthly life has ended. This has been done effectively as the names of church members who have died are read as part of the Communion ritual around All Saints' Day.
- Handbells are good for community outreach. They can be played at retirement homes, nursing homes, etc.
Handbells add beauty, reverence, and joy to a worship service. We look forward to expanding this new ministry at Bethesda UMC.