Written by Nelli Thomas

I grew up singing in the church and find great comfort in it. I always like to tell people that at one point there were five Thomases in the Coon Rapids, IA Methodist church choir: my grandparents, my parents, and I. Singing truly makes me feel one with the spirit and with the members of the church and congregation. To me, the blending of voices and harmony provides a sense of joy and wonder like nothing else.

I have been hoping to join the choir since I joined the church in 2018, but having kids in 2018 and 2021 made it hard for me to commit. In early 2024 I saw in the church email bulletin they were hosting a community sing Sunday. I was very nervous to find the choir room but Patrick the organist saw the lost look on my face and helped me find my place. He asked me for my voice part and smiled when I said I was an Alto.

The moment we started warming up I felt right at home and knew it was the right time for me to ask to join the choir. Sally, the director, approved my request and right away I had my own folder and music.

The first time my older son saw me up in the choir loft he said “why did they allow you up there?” which made me laugh very hard. I am so happy that both of my children are seeing me sing in the choir and hopefully this year my 5 year old will be mature enough to join the children’s choir. I pray that one day there will once again be multiple Thomases in the church choir.

I highly encourage anyone interested to join for a community sing event. The next one will be on August 11. We have very talented singers in the choir and it’s a delight to sing with them. Sally, Patrick, and all the members of the choir are very welcoming. Please reach out to them or me if you have any questions!