During early autumn last year (2005), much thought, discussion and prayer took place regarding the possibility and desirability of adding music from a Choral Group to our praise and worship at Middle Wall.

The decision reached was that this would be a good development and the congregation was duly informed and the opportunity given for anyone who was interested to register that interest and become a member of this potential new group.

Sufficient people expressed an interest and, as the vocal balance of interested singers was good, the Group was formed and rehearsals got underway on Tuesday, 1^st November.  The initial sessions concentrated on seasonal music for Advent and Christmas and the Group first sang publicly during the morning service on 4^th December.

Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings from 8.00 to 9.00, following the Worship Group’s rehearsal and are not held every week but rather as agreed between members - usually three times a month.  During this time, members work hard but with a good deal of fun and enjoyment.  Hard work is necessary if the Group is to move forward and provide an additional and meaningful element to our services.  As we always seek God’s help and blessing at rehearsals and when we sing in services, seriousness of purpose and a high degree of effort is a right and proper input from the singers.

Since its formation, the Group has worked on 11 songs and has taken part in five morning services and the Carols by Candlelight evening.  It has been very encouraging for the singers to learn that a considerable number of people have found that the choral input has provided an added blessing, challenge or inspiration.

The work of the Choral Group complements that of the Worship Group, each having its own and different role, the two groups in no way competing with each other! In fact, all Worship Group members are also singing in the Choral Group, accounting for over half of its membership!

The Choral Group, with its 16 singers, pianist and leader, has had an encouraging beginning and is now an established element of Whitstable Baptist Church, usually taking part in one morning service each month.  However, new members will always be welcome, especially men but not exclusively so! If you feel that singing with the Group is something in which you would like to get involved, please feel free to speak to me or to any Group member or to simply come along to one of our rehearsals, which are announced on the weekly Church Notices Sheet.

The ability to read music is not necessary but, with practice and help, to be able to pitch a note and sing in tune is a requirement.  Any potential member should also be prepared to work hard, to give commitment to this form of service for the Lord and to enjoy singing for Him.