The Western Isles Presbytery recently hosted a Praise Evening with the event being staged in the church hall in Back. Nearly 200 people gathered to sing a selection of psalms that had been carefully chosen to reflect a variety of tunes and styles. Most of the psalms were in English with a selection of Gaelic singings also included with Rev James MacIver providing a short Gospel message. It was hoped that the event would attract a good attendance and be encouraging and enjoyable – it did not disappoint! Many commented on how uplifting the night was with several different congregations represented, but for most it was the combination of volume and harmony that proved to be moving and inspiring.
For the last 18 months there has been a harmony group meeting fortnightly in Tong Mission House, led by Calum Martin & Kenny Macdonald who are both accomplished musicians and singers, as well as being elders in the Back congregation. This group were seated together in the centre of the hall and very much added to the depth of the singing. The harmony group was started with the hope it would improve congregational singing, and it has been a popular addition to the available activities, and it has been fantastic to see it grow steadily throughout the year.
Click here to view a short video of the singing on the night.
‘Let them give glory to the Lord and proclaim his praise in the Islands’ – Isaiah 42:12