Christ Church of Longboat Key honors America through worship music

Christ Church of Longboat Key finished the American holiday weekend with a patriotic service on July 7.

Instead of its usual Sunday service, the Rev. Julia Piermont picked 13 American hymns for the church's first “festival of the hymns.” 

Congregants complimented Piermont on how incredible and unique the music program was. 

“This is the first time we have ever done something like this,” said Christ Church member Bill Wartinbee. “Last week, we had 60 attendees and today we had 90. I can for sure tell you it is all Julia. She is one of the youngest pastors we have had, so I really think that is why she is always looking for new ideas and ways to engage us. She is really making us look good.” 

Music director Robert Romanski and his step-daughter Alexa Lowrey led the church through the hymns. The music team also had organist Chris Westfall, trumpet player Brad Turner and flute player David Tagliarini. 

Throughout the service, Piermont explained the history of each hymn and how it could be used in worship and to honor America. She used four songs that sounded uniquely American, five samples of American poetry and two songs that show a trend that is both old and new. 

The hymn lineup included “Medley of Patriotism,” “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee," “America the Beautiful” and “Amazing Grace.”

Having a bachelor's degree in music, Piermont continues to encourage musical worship as a strong form of prayer for the Christ Church congregants. Partnering with Romanski and the music team, she hopes that everyone will take these hymns home and continue to meditate on them as they grow in their faith.