As a twelve year old I did not aspire to do much of anything in the little church where we worshipped. I was supremely content to listen to others play an instrument or sing a special. And I certainly was not yearning for the chance to lead a song service.

I recall as though it were yesterday the terror that swept over me when Mother volunteered me to lead in the absence of the older gentleman who usually waved his hands vaguely in the air while lustily singing some selection from the hymnal.

I was assured his duties consisted largely of announcing the number of the song and getting everyone started at the right time. As Mom was the pianist and music was such an integral part of our home life I decided to attempt what seemed an impossibility.

Sure enough; with a bit of private coaching on the proper pattern for waving one's arms while singing, plus a bit of head nodding and significant glances from the piano bench, I made it through my debut as a church song leader.

No doubt it was clumsy and rough. I'm certain an accomplished worship leader might have been justifiably critical of my style and technique. But as is so often the case in our youth, Mother served to push me into something I might never have tried left to my own devices.

Special appreciation to our Moms for the foundations they laid as we grew under their supervision!

Pastor Orrell