Dear FRC Family,

You know, there’s something about the sound of our pipe organ that makes heaven lean in. Its majesty fills the sanctuary and reminds us of the sacred legacy we’ve inherited — one we deeply treasure. I’ve also heard the holy rumblings about the recent investment in the organ’s restoration and the longing to hear it singing from the prelude to the postlude without a single break. And truly, I get it. When something so beautiful has been both costly and carefully restored, we want to enjoy it fully — as we should.

But let’s remember: the organ’s purpose, like every instrument in worship, is to serve the Spirit, not to center the service. Worship is not an exhibit; it’s a living, breathing encounter with God. And our music, like our congregation, must reflect that life — diverse, evolving, and beautifully intertwined.

So no, we’re not putting the organ on the back shelf or replacing it with a keyboard and a tambourine (though if the Spirit moves, a tambourine might make an appearance). We’re simply widening the musical palette — adding gospel, contemporary, and global expressions of faith that meet everyone where they are. The pipe organ will remain a cornerstone of our sound, but now it will converse with new voices rather than compete with them.

This is not a departure; it’s a deepening. The same God who breathes through those organ pipes also grooves through gospel chords and stirs hearts through contemporary praise. Together, they form the sound of many waters — one Spirit, many streams.

So, dear FRC, take heart: your beloved organ is not being replaced. It’s being joined by siblings in song. And together, we will continue to make a joyful noise that reflects the fullness of God’s kingdom.

With love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for every note we make together,

Dr. Dominique P. Denman

Designated Pastor, and Fellow Lover of the Great Organ (and a good gospel, jazz, classical, country, R&B and more groove)