I have great news! Dr. Thomas M. Reefer is being promoted from Interim Music Director to Music Director effective this Sunday, October 1.
For nearly four years I have had the privilege of working closely with Thomas in his role as Parish Administrator and, since last November, Interim Music Director. Thomas’ energy and enthusiasm are truly boundless, matched only by his dedication and desire to serve God through the work of the church. From building out our online streaming capabilities during the pandemic, to introducing a bagpiper for Homecoming Sunday, Thomas simply makes everything better.
I remember at a Vestry retreat earlier this year, Thomas volunteered to prepare brunch. He went from cooking in the kitchen, to giving the Vestry a presentation on Incarnate Jazz, returning to the kitchen, and then coming back to discuss proposals he had solicited from organ builders. “Is there anything he can’t do?” a Vestry member remarked. Thomas returned to the meeting a short while later to answer questions about upgrading our church management software.
Thomas is also one of the funniest people you will ever meet, and I encourage you to chat him up for a good laugh. I once overheard him on the phone saying he would ride down Park Avenue on a donkey and shout Hosannas in praise of the person he was talking to. I guess they had made his day!
I hope you will join me in congratulating Thomas and giving thanks to God for his many gifts. His music lifts our hearts, fills our souls with gladness, and transports us to the very throne of God. Thomas has also brought on an Assistant Music Director, our new bass, Bert Johnson. Perhaps you’ve already seen Bert conducting the choir. Add to that Thomas’ introduction of piano music during the 11:00 a.m. service and, of course, his oversight of the upcoming organ restoration. These are all signs that our music program is going from strength to strength.
Praise God we are in such good and capable hands. May this Sunday’s worship be especially joyful in celebration of Jesus Christ and his faithful servant Thomas!
Adrian+