In January 2020, a piece of music was commissioned by Belmont UMC’s Music Ministry in honor of Gayle Sullivan’s 30th anniversary at Belmont. Philip Stopford was commissioned to compose the anthem and the text for the selection was chosen by Gayle in consultation with additional music leaders. The anthem was completed and delivered to us in January of 2021.

Now that the choir is in full attendance, they will present this beautiful anthem as an offering in worship on Sunday, October 10. The poem for the piece is uniquely crafted by author, John Thornburg, and reflects the immediate circumstances of the pandemic - “Whether quiet or resounding, in a group or all alone, when we give our thanks through music seeds of faith and hope are sown.” Philip Stopford has set the poem to music that is both tranquil and triumphant.