The Music Department's mission is one of ministry through music, to enhance the total ministry of St. John A.M.E. Church. With the aid of the Holy Spirit, we will prepare the heart of the listener for the preached word, and promote wholeness through the gift of music. We submit ourselves to His leading, and dedicate our talents to glorify His Name.
I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. Ps. 63:4
The Music Department is comprised of the following Musicians and Directors:
- Queen Esther Baker - Minister of Music
- Kinsley James - Keyboardist
- Terrance Bew - Keyboardist
- John Alexander - Bass Guitarist
- Keith McAlister - Drummer
- Jim Davis - Trumpeter
- Mrs. Barbetta Neil - Director, Imani Choir
- Shell Benjamin - Director, Dance Ministry
- Mrs. Mary Hawkins - Director, Sign Singers & Praise Choir
- Eldridge Robinson - Director, Youth Choir
- Robert Hatcher - Director, Praise Team
Sanctuary Choir
An adult choir which meets on Thursdays at 7:00p.m. An alternate rehearsal is provided for members unable to attend on Thursdays. This rehearsal is held on Saturdays at 11:30a.m. This choir exemplifies a versatile music repertoire and is open to interested persons with a willingness to praise and worship God with their talents. Members acknowledge their mission to dedicate themselves and their talents to the glory of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Contact Person: Ms. Queen Esther Baker
Imani Choir
An adult choir which meets on Mondays at 7:00 p.m. and ministers on the third Sunday of each month. This choir exemplifies a Contemporary Gospel Repertoire. Contact Person: Mrs. Barbetta Neil
Men's Ensemble
An adult choir of men which meets on Thursdays at 6:30p.m. This ensemble exemplifies a gospel music repertoire and ministers mainly on the third Sundays. This ensemble is open to any interested men with a willingness to lift their voices in Praise to the Lord. Contact Person: Mr. Kinsley James
Children's Choir
This aggregation of young people range in age from 3 to 12. They are taught various songs and their meanings so that they realize who they are singing about and why they sing. These children meet twice a month on Fridays at 7:00p.m. Contact Person: Mrs. Queen Esther Baker
Youth Choir
Sign Singers
This talented group of 7 to 17 year old young people enjoy using sign language to compliment vocal and instrumental music as they express praises to God; testify of His wonder, love and goodness; and inspire others to believe in Jesus Christ as Savior! In addition to learning more about another language (American Sign Language, finger spelling, gestures, nonverbal communication, etc.), these young people have an opportunity to participate in discussions in which they learn the significance of the religious messages in songs and develop an appreciation for the lyrics of sacred music. The Sign Singers' calendar is developed throughout the year based upon special invitations and regularly scheduled events at St. John. Rehearsals are on Fridays at 7:00p.m. when there is a need to prepare for ministry. The group typically renders programs and visits settings where individuals are confined, such as nursing homes, places of incarceration, hospitals, senior citizens' housing developments, facilities of those who are physically handicapped, and homes of individuals who are sick or unable to travel with ease. Parents volunteer to support the group's needs for transportation and designated attire. All young people are welcome to minister with the Sign Singers of St. John. Contact Person: Mrs. Mary Hawkins
Praise Choir
The Praise Choir's mission is the same as that of the Sign Singers. However, it is a ministry for individuals who are 18 years old and older. These adults participate in the same outreach ministries as the Sign Singers, but the Praise Choir also ministers regularly on the second Sunday of each month - providing praise and worship music at the beginning of worship services. The Praise Choir participates in Bible study sessions in order to relate the Word with each new selection that is learned. Rehearsals are held on Fridays at 7:00p.m. All adults are welcome to minister with the Praise Choir. Contact Person: Mrs. Mary Hawkins
Dancer Ministry
The Dance Ministry's purpose is to express the worship and praise of God through movement, thus ushering His presence to the congregation in order that their hearts and souls are prepared for the spoken word of the Lord. This ministry is an expression of communion between our spirit, mind, and body that dances with God. Rehearsals are on Fridays from 6:00p.m. to 8:00p.m. Contact Person: Shell M. Benjamin
Praise Team
