Mary Deville: Sharing Our Musical Talents

My earliest memory of attending PLC was in my college days at Augie in the early 90s. Having grown up in a large, traditional church with stained-glass windows, gothic arches, and a massive pipe organ, the contemporary design and energetic pastor [Paul] were all things that intrigued me! Later that decade after moving to the west side of Sioux Falls and having a family of my own, I was drawn back here.

Initially I joined the choir, but shortly thereafter I started playing violin for various groups, and that has continued to be one of my favorite things to do here. From solos to large groups, I have made many friends along the way.

Since string music lends itself well to the contemplative sounds of Advent and Lent, I was one of the lucky ones who got to play for our first livestreamed service in the spring of 2020 (Covid years). On the flip side, the loud and lively music we play for Mariachi Sunday is always such a treat and welcome change of pace!

Not only do I love the challenge of learning new songs for worship, but I love the feedback I get from other congregation members. Hearing about the impact that the music had on them personally, whether it was soothing or perhaps just the thing they needed to hear that day, is what makes me feel like I’m making a difference.

One of my earliest childhood memories was learning about faith through Sunday School songs. Who can forget such classics like “I’ve got the Joy Joy Joy” or “This Little Light of Mine”? Music has always been a huge part of my personal faith journey, and I feel we are truly so fortunate to have such a strong program here with so many different ways for people to share their musical talents.