Community handbell ringing group interest meeting to be Jan. 12

By Melissa McCaghren

Slatonite GM

A community handbell ringing group is forming.

Sarah Fox, along with Pastor Judith Shema at First United Methodist Church, are planning to create the group.

They will conduct an in formation session Jan. 12 at 5 p.m. at the church, 305 W. Lubbock St.

The ability to read music is not required.

The only need is a desire to make music to perform at Slaton public events, nursing homes and any worship context.

Fox said there were several reasons why they were creating the group. “Pastor Judy and I desire to create a handbell group to: sponsor an outreach ministry in the Slaton community, teach the fundamentals of music, create opportunities to serve thru music, create opportunities to have fun and enjoy music (and) enhance worship and give uplifting music,” she said, adding she is a lifelong musician, teacher and church leader. She is also new to FUMC.

Ringers are usually between ages 15 to 80 years old and can learn to read music in rehearsals.

Those who already read music can learn a new way to create beauty through music.

For more information, please read the Thursday edition of The Slatonite.