Music at WPC-
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Proper 10
Voluntary: Come, Find a Quiet Center Laurel Labbe, Soloist
Offertory: Just As I Am Howard Helvey (b. 1968) Laurel Labbe, Soloist
Voluntary: Improvisation
Hymns
Opening Hymn: 461- God Is Here! ABBOT'S LEIGH
Sequence Hymn: 510- Jesus, Thou Joy of Loving Hearts QUEBEC
Closing Hymn: 540- God Be With You Till We Meet Again RANDOLPH
Next Week's Music at WPC:
Sunday, July 12: Bob Carlyon, Organ; Ronnie Dailey, Soloist
Prelude- About the Music
"Come and Find the Quiet Center" is a reflective hymn by American hymn writer Shirley Erena Murray (1931–2020), whose texts are known for addressing contemporary faith with poetic depth and theological insight. Written in 1992, the hymn invites worshipers to step away from the busyness and distractions of daily life and enter into God's presence through silence, prayer, and renewal. It is most often paired with the beloved American folk tune BEECH SPRING, first published in The Sacred Harp (1844). The tune's flowing, pentatonic melody and gentle character beautifully complement Murray's text, creating a sense of peace and contemplation. Together, text and tune offer a powerful reminder that in the midst of life's demands, Christ continues to call us to a quiet place where our spirits can be restored and strengthened for faithful service.
Offertory- About the Composer
Howard Helvey is an American composer, conductor, organist, and church musician whose choral works have become favorites among church, school, and community choirs. His music is admired for its lyrical melodies, rich yet accessible harmonies, and sensitive treatment of the text, allowing singers to communicate both musical beauty and spiritual depth. Drawing inspiration from the Anglican choral tradition while maintaining a distinctly contemporary voice, Helvey has composed numerous anthems, service settings, and larger sacred works that are performed throughout the United States and abroad. His compositions strike a careful balance between artistic sophistication and practical singability, making them well suited for ensembles of varying sizes and abilities. Through his work as both a composer and church musician, Helvey has made a lasting contribution to modern sacred choral repertoire.