Heart & Voice

GoldMail Personal Player

2011-02-16T19:20:00.000-05:00

NewSong

2010-08-10T14:35:00.005-04:00

Are you an aspiring lyricist or composer? Go to the "Submit a Psalm or Hymn" page at NewSong and send your compositions for inclusion on the site. If your work fits our criteria of truth, beauty, goodness, excellence, fitness for worship, etc., we'll be glad to add your work to our list. Take a look and see what we have up already, and make sure you listen to the beautiful rendition of The Apostle's Creed by Amber Fisher. Watch for additions from Jamie Soles, Brian Nolder, and John Fleischmann....real soon!

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T10:02:00.001-04:00

Heart & Voice Podcast #1

2010-02-23T07:57:00.001-05:00

Take a listen over at Heart & Voice....our first podcast in a series on Singing to the Lord with Joy & Skill. This is some of the material you will experience in a live Singing School...so schedule one at your church, or school, or homeschool group!

Learn to sing...Better!

2010-02-06T11:04:00.003-05:00

Former Houghton College music professor, Ted Norton, has a great site filled lots of good stuff to help you sing better...joyfully and skillfully to the Lord. Heart & Voice is happy to recommend his contribution!

Here's is the outline:

LEARNING MUSIC

1. Music Reading for Singers - Sight Singing

2. Memorizing Music

3. Rhythm

SINGING BETTER

4. How Well Do I Sing? - A Checklist

5. Singing Better Thru Proper Breathing

6. Singing Better Thru Register Understanding

7. Singing Better Thru Vowel & Consonant Understanding

8. Intonation - Singing In Tune

9. Learning To Harmonize

10. Vocal Health, Warm-Ups & Singing Craft

UNDERSTANDINGS

11. Understanding Chord Members

12. Acoustics - The Science of Sound

EDUCATION

13. Inaccurate Singing - Children & Adults

14. Chapter and Quartet Management

15. Working With Middle School Boys

Spring is not that far away....

2010-01-26T12:10:00.005-05:00

Why haven't you scheduled a Heart & Voice Singing School for your church or Christian school group?? Take a look at our Singing School page and see what we do.

New stuff at the H&V website...

2010-01-22T11:49:00.002-05:00

....4-part harmony videos, children's rounds, new hymn arrangements. Take a look here.

2009-12-08T06:52:00.002-05:00

Our Christmas Concert & Carol Sing was great! You can hear the whole evening here.

Christmas Concert & Carol Sing, December 5th

2009-11-05T09:21:00.002-05:00

Christ Covenant Church and Heart & Voice present our annual Christmas Concert & Carol Sing. If you missed last year, here's your opportunity to join us for an evening of joyful Christmas music.

We'll hear talented musicians, we'll sing some of the great carols of the season, we'll enjoy refreshments, and fellowship. Don't miss it...bring your family and friends! See you there!

December 5th @ 7pm

Christ Covenant Church

67 Scudder Avenue

Copiague, NY 11726

Make sure you visit Heart & Voice to see the carols we'll be singing...learn your harmony part!

Before the " Long Prayer"....

2009-10-13T07:21:00.006-04:00

Into the Holy Place,
Now to the Throne of Grace,
We seek God's holy Face,
Boldly we come.

O Father, hear our prayer,
And in Your loving care,
All our petitions bear,
Through Christ Your Son.

Amen!

Just in time for Christmas....

2009-09-22T14:26:00.007-04:00

H&V is pleased to announce the soon arrival of more learning tracks for the Advent ~ Christmas Season. Here is the list of forthcoming songs and their generous sponsors:

Comfort, Comfort Ye My People
The Advent of Our God
Sponsor: Pastor Jason Biette & Oakwood Bible Church

Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming
Hark the Herald Angels Sing
O Come All Ye Faithful
Good Christian Men Rejoice
Sponsor: Pastor John G. Fleischmann & Christ Lutheran Church

Angels We Have Heard on High
Sponsor: Max Schnettler(member of Christ Covenant Church)

We are hoping to increase our library of Learning Tracks, especially Advent Hymns and Christmas Carols. You can help! Sponsor a song or two and help us help others to sing the glorious message of Christmas with joy and skill!

Your $50 donation will produce the 5 tracks...soprano, alto, tenor ,bass, and full-mix...for one song. These are placed on our website for anyone to use for FREE.

Here are some songs of the Season we would like to have in our library:

O Come, O Come Emmanuel
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Silent Night
The First Noel

Choose one, and send your donation to:

Christ Covenant Church
Heart &Voice Project
5 Harvard Drive
Hampton Bays, NY 11946

And we thank you for making a the Heart & Voice Project a success!

Blessings

Pastor Brian L. Penney, President of Heart & Voice

Christ Covenant Church

Joy to the World

2009-09-08T16:33:00.002-04:00

Start practicing your part now to this much loved Christmas carol, and by Christmas you'll have it mastered, eyes closed! Make sure you sing all the verses, especially the one about "His blessings flow, far as the curse is found." You'll soon be a postmillenialist!

Free Joy to the World Learning Tracks over here.

For Friends at the King's Chapel

2009-08-27T07:24:00.003-04:00

From Psalm 59....

From those who hate me, O my God, deliver,
They rise against me--Lord, be my Defender.
Bloodthirsty men of sin, workers of iniquity;
From them, O save me!

Like hungry dogs, around the city prowling,
Their lips are swords, I hear their evil growling.
For look, they lie in wait in the darkness secretly;
From them, O save me!

But God shall laugh and hold them in derision,
God is my strength--Yea, this is my confession.
Scatter them by Your pow'r, my desire let me see;
From them, O save me!

Now I will sing, for You, O Lord, have saved me,
And in the morning, thank You for Your mercy.
You are my sure defense, and my help through evil days;
So I shall sing Your praise!

Tune:Iste Confessor, Poitiers Antiphoner, 1746
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009

Two New Learning Tracks @ H&V

2009-08-17T10:42:00.002-04:00

There are two new hymns in learning track format up at the new Heart & Voice website...take a look and sing along! Do you have any psalms or hymns you would like to see added to our learning track list? Send them to blp22 at optonline dot net. Also, there is a new blog on the website that will be taking over from this one soon. Take a look here...you might find the post interesting.

New H&V Website....

2009-08-12T21:04:00.001-04:00

under construction, that is. Take a look: www.heartandvoice.weebly.com

Some H&V news

2009-08-03T11:18:00.011-04:00

Heart & Voice travels the world-wide net to England...

First, the man:
Richard Irwin (b. 1955) is well known as an Internet Entrepreneur as well as a writer, composer, arranger and singer. His popular web site hymnswithoutwords.com has thousands of visitors each month who download his arrangements of hymns. He lives on the Marlborough Downs in Wiltshire, England with his wife Nicky and has two children. He is Director of Music for the Parish of Holy Cross Chiseldon.

Second, the website:
www.hymnswithoutwords.com

Third, our place:
http://www.hymns withoutwords.com/hymns/Category:Brian_L._Penney

Check out the rest of the site....lots of hymn resources!

And from Canada....

H&V is working with this experienced singer to produce more 4-part learning tracks for psalms and hymns on our website:

My name is Daniel Gillis, and I have been singing for over 30 years! My career started as a boy chorister, where I learned to sight-read. I was introduced to barbershop singing in 1983 by Fred Christmas, a family friend and a previous director of the Hamilton Chorus.

I completed my studies at the Royal Conservatory of Music for Voice and Piano, and began my professional singing career in Victoria, British Columbia as tenor soloist for the choir of St John the Divine.

My first chorus experience within the barbershop community was as a tenor with the Plymouth Pilgrimaires in Devon, UK in 1990. The next year I sang with The City of Lakes Chorus in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia.

Continuing my singing career in Ottawa, Ontario I have been tenor soloist in various churches and cathedrals. In 2002, I began singing as a classical counter-tenor, and since then I have sung in both ranges. For example, I have sung as both tenor and counter-tenor soloist in Handel's Messiah.

I have been fortunate to sing as soloist with a number of excellent choirs, including Musica Divina, 17 Voyces, The Bach Choir, Cantata Singers and St Matthew's Choir. I have also been able to continue my acting career with leading tenor roles in 5 G&S Operas, 2 Shakespeare plays, Hair the Musical, and Grease.

I have been in several a cappella groups, including the Acafellas (doo-wop), SAIJ (boy-band), Quintessence (jazz), and more recently Strike Four! which won the Novice Quartet trophy in 2005 and Common Interest, which won the Ontario District Championship in 2007! I sang with the Capital City Chorus for several years as a tenor, and was the lead section leader for the last year before I left Ottawa. I currently live in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, in northern Canada.

You can hear more samples of his work at Vocal Harmonies.

Daniel is looking forward to assisting in the H&V learning track project. We have 10 psalms and hymns ready for him to produce...5 tracks for each song: soprano, alto, tenor, bass, and all together. We've been quoted a discount price of $500 to produce all 10. Here's where the big sign goes up...HELP. Seriously, we would appreciate any funding help you might be so inclined to send our way to get this project off the ground. Please send your donations to:

Heart & Voice Project
5 Harvard Drive
Hampton Bays, NY 11946

Checks should be made out to Christ Covenant Church, with a notation for H&V project.

Thanks!

Brian

P.S. Send us a list of your church's favorite psalms and hymns and we'll consider making learning tracks for them.

Crossroads Quartet

2009-07-27T15:44:00.001-04:00

Just for harmonizing fun here's the 2009 Barbershop champs singing Roll, Jordan, Roll.

2009-06-15T22:14:00.003-04:00

My Shepherd is the Living God
~ Psalm 23 ~

My Shepherd is the living God,
My needs He has supplied;
In pastures green, by waters still,
He is my faithful Guide.

And though I walk through shades of death,
No evil will I fear;
Your rod and staff, they comfort me,
For You are always near.

A Table You have spread for me,
Before surrounding foes;
The oil of joy anoints my head,
My cup, Lord, overflows.

Your goodness and Your mercy, Lord,
Shall follow me always;
And I shall dwell within Your house,
Fore’er to sing Your praise.

____________________________
Tune: Brother James's Air, James Leith Macbeth Bain, (1840-1925)
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008
(the last two lines of each verse are repeated)

Heart & Voice Multi-track Contest

2009-05-20T13:20:00.002-04:00

In the works...for you video, 4-part, multi-trackers and those aspiring thereunto, a contest. The broad outline goes like this:

1.We provide a Christian psalm or hymn for you to sing (everyone will get the same song).
2. You may sing the song straight or arrange it.
3. Be as creative as you like with the video...your smiling face, or still pictures, or video clips.
4. The judges will decide the winners for cash prizes: first, second, third, and honorable mention.
5. Sponsors will be sought to fund the promotion, prizes, etc.
6. All videos will be featured on our website.
7. Winners will have the option to help us produce 4-part training audios/videos for the Heart & Voice ministry. (for pay, of course!)

More information will be forthcoming, so watch here. In the meantime, here's a tag that demonstrates kinda what we are looking for....

Beautiful Savior

2009-05-12T07:56:00.002-04:00

How 'bout some more Vance Perry?

Listen very carefully....

2009-05-01T08:56:00.000-04:00

And Can It Be..the Glad Arrangement

2009-04-27T08:07:00.003-04:00

Here is another multitrack by Vance Perry...nicely done!

Hear more Vance....some hymns here and also Barbershop stuff. Notice the careful crafting in his harmony singing! Congregations can be taught to sing more skillfully in 4-part harmony too! We're doing it with our Singing Schools. Why not schedule one for your church!

A 4-part choir of one! Wow!

2009-04-23T15:31:00.001-04:00

Vance Perry...now that's harmony!

2009-04-21T13:40:00.002-04:00

Benedictus (new)

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;
For the Lord has come, His people to redeem,
And in David’s house salvation’s horn is seen.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;
For the promise He has made, He shall fulfill,
And His cov’nant to us, He remembers still.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;
When foes draw near, He shall save us from their hand,
That we might serve Him, and in righteousness stand.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;
He has sent His prophet to prepare His way,
To tell of His salvation before His face.

Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel,
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel;
The Dayspring from on high has come to our aid,
To give light to those who sit in death’s dark shade.

________________________________
Tune: Christmas Hymn, William Knapp, 1743
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009 (from Luke 2:68-79)
(Note: Second half of each verse is repeated)

For Isaiah Buck

2009-04-06T21:49:00.002-04:00

Come Now, and Let Us to the Lord

Come now, and let us to the Lord,
Return with all our heart;
For He will heal and He will bind,
What He has torn apart.

And it shall be in two days time,
That revival He shall give;
E'en on the third day raise us up,
That in His sight we'll live.

O let us know with all our heart,
With all our soul and mind;
The knowledge of the Lord our God,
O let us seek and find.

Sure as the morning, is our God,
And as the rising sun;
Like rain is sent upon the earth,
So to us He shall come!

_________________________
Tune: Westerham, West Gallery Psalter( no date)
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009 (from Hosea 6:1-3)

For Palm Sunday ~ 2009

2009-04-04T07:50:00.005-04:00

O Who Is This in Lowly State?

O Who is this in lowly state,
Upon a donkey's foal;
Amid the wond'ring multitude,
Along the dusty road?

The Son of David takes His seat,
Not on a throne of gold;
But rides His steed in humbleness,
As prophets have foretold.

Hosanna! shouts the swelling throng,
With palms in hand they sing;
To David's blessed Son they cry,
Hosanna to our King!

Behold, this King comes as a Lamb,
A sacrifice for sin;
A greater than a Solomon,
An ancient war to win.

What glory this? A rugged cross,
And on His noble head;
A crown of thorns, a mocking shame,
The King now joins the dead.

But He shall break Hell's prison bars,
And set death's captives free;
We all shall shout Hosanna then,
And sing eternally!

____________________-
Tune: Dorchester, West Gallery Psalter, 1810
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009

2009-03-19T16:29:00.003-04:00

We take pleasure in recommending to you Michael Owens' Genevan Psalter website.

www.genevanpsalter.com

And while we are at it, we remind you of Arise & Sing which features Michael singing H&V psalms and hymns.

Find samples here.
Purchase the CD and sheet music here.

Another Round for Children

2009-03-19T07:46:00.006-04:00

Lay Up Treasures in Heav'n

Lay up treasures in heav'n---
No moth, no rust, no robbers may destroy;
Where your treasure, there your heart shall be!

______________________________
Tune: 3-part round, Hey, Ho, Nobody Home, 1609
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2009-03-17T08:31:00.002-04:00

In the Temple the Children Sang

In the Temple the children sang,
And through its courts their voices rang;
Hosanna sing, Hosanna sing,
Hosanna sing to our King.
Hosanna sing, Hosanna sing,
Singing praises to our King.

_______________________________
Tune: 3-part round, Now We Are Met, 18th century
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2009-03-10T13:46:00.002-04:00

Heart & Voice Singing School & Conference
April 25th, 2009
at
Christ Lutheran Church
100 Frowein Road
East Moriches, NY 11940

Sing to the Lord with Heart & Voice! This is a special invitation to you...join us Saturday, April 25th at Christ Lutheran Church, East Moriches, NY for a day of joyful singing, fellowship, and instruction:

• Learn what the Bible says about worship and worship music.
• Learn to sing a harmony part that fits your voice range.
• Learn to sing and harmonize in group singing.
• Learn the history of congregational singing in the church.

Here’s the schedule for the day:
8:30 ~ 9:00 Registration/ coffee & donuts
9:00 ~ 9:30 Welcome, Introductions and Singing
9:30 ~ 10:30 Session #1: Reformation Roots: Let God’s People Sing!
Rev. John Fleischmann
10:30 ~ 10:45 Morning Break
10:45 ~ 11:00 Heart & Voice Choir part-singing demonstration
11:00 ~ 12:00 Session #2: Singing School & Section Rehearsal
Neil Shah
12:00 ~ 1:00 Lunch Break
1:00 ~ 2:00 Session #3: Shaping the Hymnody of American Voices
Rev. Ron Weinbaum
2:00 ~ 2:15 Afternoon Break
2:15 ~ 3:15 Session #4: Singing School & Section Rehearsal
Neil Shah
3:15 ~ 3:30 The Grand Finale & Closing

Go to www.heartandvoice.net and listen to these hymns which we will be learning:
• Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun
• Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
• From Heaven, O Praise the Lord
• Trust in the Lord

This is a free singing school & conference, and lunch is provided by our gracious hosts!. An offering will be taken to help with costs.

Call 631-594-1377
or
email: blp22@optonline.net
for more information.

2009-03-10T13:04:00.004-04:00

Teach Us, O Lord

Teach us, O Lord, with all our heart,
With all our soul, and all our mind;
To love Thee with a steadfast love:
This Law, a statute most sublime.

And likewise to our neighbor show,
A sacrificial love like Thee;
Who offered up Thine only Son,
To bear our sin and set us free.

O Lord our God, to Thee we cry,
Have mercy on us now we pray;
Incline our hearts to keep this Law,
And lead us in the perfect way.

______________________
Tune: Distress, William Walker, 1835
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009

2009-02-10T13:56:00.005-05:00

Rejoice, Our Weekly Work is Done

Rejoice, our weekly work is done,
Another Lord's Day has begun;
O welcome, sacred day of rest,
The day that God Himself has blessed.
(Refrain 2x)
Welcome, welcome, welcome, welcome,
Day that God Himself has blessed;
O welcome, sacred day of rest,
The day that God Himself has blessed

Let us devote this joyous day,
To thanks and praise, and let us pray,
That as we worship God above,
We all would know the Savior's love.
(Refrain)

Now with the saints all gathered 'round,
We seek the Lord where He is found;
By Word and Sacrament we know,
His love and grace to us will flow.
(Refrain)

And from this place and from this Day,
The Lord shall send us on our way;
To do His work another week,
And then return, His favor seek.
(Refrain)

__________________________
Tune: Angels' Song, Hesperian Harp, 1848
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009

2009-01-28T11:15:00.003-05:00

Have You Not Known?

Have you not known nor heard?
Has none of this been told?
Above the circle of the earth,
Jehovah sits enthroned.

Have you not known nor heard?
God of eternity,
Creator of the universe,
Shall never fainting be.

To whom shall we compare,
And who has equal fame?
For God brings out the starry host,
And calls each one by name.

Young men may faint and fall,
Be ruined utterly;
But those who wait upon the Lord,
Shall like the eagles be.

_______________________________
Tune: New Hope, Ananias Davisson, 1820
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009

2009-01-16T11:16:00.005-05:00

O Sing Aloud to God Our Strength
Psalm 81

O sing aloud to God our strength,
With joy lift up your voice;
To Jacob's God all raise a shout,
And let your heart rejoice.

Now bring your instruments of praise,
This joyful psalm to sing;
The pleasant harp, the lute most sweet,
And let the timbrel ring.

The time has come, the trumpet blow,
Announce this festal day;
The statute of our solemn feast,
We joyfully obey.

O come you people, heed God's voice,
And walk in all His ways;
He turns His hand against our foes,
Subdues our enemies.

The Lord is good, He shall supply,
Now open your mouth wide;
He with the choicest foods shall feed,
Till all are satisfied.

______________________________________
Tune: Lincoln tune, West Gallery Psalter, unknown date
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2009
( each part sings a line from each verse, then all sing together repeating the last two lines.)

2009-01-01T08:53:00.003-05:00

The Word Made Flesh

Creator of the universe,
The Word made flesh, and for our curse,
In great humiliation came,
To bear our sin, our guilt, and shame.

He made the trees, the rocks and hills,
The rolling fields, the sun that fills
This world with ever-shining light;
The splendor of the stars of night.

To Him a crown of thorns was giv'n,
A mocking robe, by madness driv'n;
And nailed upon a cross of wood,
Upon a lonely hill it stood.

The sun grew dark above His head,
The sky in which His fingers spread
The sun, the moon, the stars of space;
Shone not upon His bloodied face.

The ground grew wet with drops of blood,
And all around we sinners stood,
That He, forsaken in our place,
Might wash us by His loving grace.

_____________________________
Tune: Brookfield, William Billings, 1770
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-12-26T16:03:00.005-05:00

The Lord's Prayer (new)

Father in heaven, Your name we confess,
High and exalted in bright holiness;
O may Your kingdom come, Your will be done,
And may the earth and heav'n be joined as one.

O Father now our daily bread supply,
And grant forgiveness for iniquity;
May we forgive, as we have been forgiv'n,
Our hearts with mercy filled, as Yours in heav'n.

O Father lead us from temptation's pow'r,
May we find safety from sin's trying hour;
O Lord deliver from the evil one,
All this we ask through Your Beloved Son. Amen!

_______________________________
Tune: Toulon, Genevan Psalter 124, 1551
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

A Morning Round

2008-12-26T07:10:00.003-05:00

In the Morning I Will Praise Him

In the morning I will praise Him,
Lift my voice up to the sky;
For He ever watches o'er me,
God Most High.

Hallelujah, Hallelujah, God Most High.

Lift my voice up in the morning,
In the morning praise the Lord,
God Most High!

_____________________________________
Tune: Gaudeamus Hodie
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-12-19T12:07:00.006-05:00

When Jesus' Kingdom is Complete
(I Corinthians 15)

When Jesus' kingdom is complete,
And all His foes put down;
Then Christ the firstfruits from the dead,
Shall call with trumpet sound.

Behold, the natural man is dust,
But on that glorious Day;
The dead are raised, we shall be changed,
No more to pass away.

O Death, where is your awful sting?
-The sting of death is sin;
O Hades where's your victory?
For Christ o'er death did win!

Give thanks to God for Christ the Son,
And for abundant grace;
The Spirit keep us for that Day,
When we shall see Christ's face.

_________________________________
Tune: Otford, Michael Beesly, 1746
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-12-16T13:05:00.006-05:00

Come Children, Sing to Jesus

Come children, sing to Jesus,
Sing of all His wondrous ways;

With a tune that's joyful, joyful, joyful,
With a tune that's joyful, sing His praise.

For He loves His cov'nant children,
He will bless them all their days.

____________________________
Tune: To the Greenwood, 17th century round
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-12-04T21:56:00.007-05:00

Arise and Sing!
Heart & Voice New Hymns
Volume One
Featuring Michael E. Owens

This CD will be available soon on our website...watch for it!
Here is a sample:

2008-12-01T10:02:00.003-05:00

O My Heart Rejoices ~ Psalm 122

O my heart rejoices to hear them say,
“Let us go to Zion this festal day!”
Up to her court with all those called God’s own,
There standing in His gates, before His throne.

Zion stands before us, a glorious place!
There the people gather to seek God’s face;
And to give thanks to David’s greater Heir,
Who sits enthroned to make His judgments there.

O may joy and peace all your walls surround,
And prosperity in your gates be found.
O Zion, all my hopes and prayers shall be,
A thousand blessings from the Lord to see.

To the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost;
All the Church now gathered, a mighty host--
Lift up your hearts in skillful, joyful praise;
In Zion’s courts your highest honors raise.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Music: Psalm 47, Mikolaj Gomolka, Polish Psalter, 1580
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-11-25T14:23:00.002-05:00

Arise and Shine, Your Light Has Come

from Isaiah 60

Arise and shine, your light has come!
Glory is risen upon you.
Darkness shall cover all the earth,
And gloomy darkness, the people.
But the Lord will arise o’er you,
And so His glory shall be seen;
The Gentiles shall come to your light.

Lift up your eyes around and see,
See them all gather together.
The riches from beyond the sea,
The wealth of nations o’erflowing.
Then you shall see with radiant face,
And then your heart shall swell with joy;
As Gentiles bring their rich off’rings.

Who are these ones who fly like clouds,
Swarming like doves to their roosting?
Surely the coastlands wait for Me;
Even in ships come from Tarshish;
All bringing your sons from afar,
Laden with silver and with gold,
To the Holy One of Israel.

The sun no more shall be your light,
Nor shall the moon in its brightness;
The Lord your God shall ever be
Eternal light and your glory.
The days of mourning all are past,
And righteous shall your people be;
The blessed work of My planting.

_______________________________
lyrics: Brian L. Penney
tune: Kirken ~ Ludvig M. Lindeman, 1840

2008-11-05T14:10:00.003-05:00

O Christ, the King of Glory

O Christ, the King of glory,
Seated at God's right hand;
To Whom all power is given,
Now to us gives command:
"Into this world I send you,
The Gospel to proclaim,
To every tribe and nation
Declare My saving name."

O Christ, the King of glory,
Endue us with Your power;
The Holy Ghost descending
With grace for this dark hour.
For we, so weak and helpless
Need power from above,
To do this Great Commission
In faith, and hope, and love.

O Christ, the King of glory,
Hell's gates let us assail;
O Jesus, mighty Captain,
Lead on, we shall prevail.
All idol gods shall tremble,
And cast down to the ground,
Discipled heathen nations
Shall honor Jesus' crown.

__________________
Tune: Johann Steurlein, 1575
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-10-21T14:49:00.002-04:00

Heart & Voice was featured on Chris Arnzen's Iron Sharpens Iron radio show recently. Have a listen!

2008-10-07T08:10:00.004-04:00

O Lord, You Know Me ~ Psalm 139

O Lord, You know me and my ways,
By Your all-seeing eye;
Such knowledge is too great for me,
Too wonderful, too high!

Where shall I go, or can I flee,
Far from your presence hide?
In heav'n or hell, beyond the sea?
Still You are at my side.

Surely the darkness covers me,
The blackness of the night;
But You are there, though dark the veil,
And shines a glorious light.

How precious are Your thoughts, O God!
How vast and great the sum.
Like sand along the ocean's shore,
Their numbers strike me dumb.

Search me, O God, and know my heart,
My anxious soul survey;
Now purge the evil and the false,
And lead me in Your way.

_______________________________
Tune: Awful Majesty, Folk Hymn, 1813
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-09-12T16:11:00.000-04:00

O Come, Let Us Sing
Psalm 95

O come, let us sing to the Lord,
In God our Rock, rejoice.
O come before Him and give thanks;
With psalms lift up your voice.

The Lord is great, above all gods,
He formed the sea and land;
The heights of hills belong to Him,
And by His hands they stand.

O come, let us worship the Lord,
Bow down at His command;
He is our God, we are His flock,
And the sheep of His hand.

Our fathers did not enter rest,
They walked not in God’s way;
Come, hear His voice, do not rebel,
O let not your heart stray.

_____________________________
Tune: Assurance, William Billings, 1781
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney 2008

2008-09-10T10:45:00.004-04:00

Feast of Joy Beyond Compare

Bread from heaven, our holy food,
Given for us to do us good;
Christ the true and living Bread,
With His body we are fed;
Feast of joy beyond compare,
Banquet all God's children share.

Cup of blessing, wine of joy,
Fount of health does Christ employ;
With His blood shed on the cross,
Seals to us His covenant grace;
Feast of joy beyond compare,
Banquet all God's children share.

Holy Spirit, feed our hearts,
With the life Christ now imparts;
We receive with thanks this grace,
Til we see Him face to face;
Feast of joy beyond compare,
Banquet all God,s children share.

A psalm for this political season...

2008-09-04T09:14:00.004-04:00

O Lord, Do Not Keep Silence
Psalm 83

O Lord, do not keep silent,
And do not hold Your peace;
Behold the awful tumult
Raised by Your enemies.
The wicked heathen nations
Have lifted up their head;
They plot against Your people,
And they would see us dead.

O Lord, set them all whirling,
Like chaff before the wind!
Pursue them with Your tempest,
In fire and storm descend!
Let them all be confounded,
May they be put to shame;
That they may know Jehovah,
That they may seek Your name!

____________________________
Tune: Whitford, John Ambrose Lloyd
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

It's not too soon....

2008-09-02T16:44:00.004-04:00

Into the Darkness, A New Light is Shining

Into the darkness, a new light is shining,
Shining with radiance and with growing glory;
The clouds have parted, and angels are singing:
"Born is the Savior!"

Awake you shepherds, now give up your sleeping,
Arise,arise and hear the angels story;
"Behold, good news of great joy I am bringing,
Haste to the Savior!"

Now to the stable the shepherds are coming,
Coming to see the One born of the Virgin;
There they found Him, as the angels were telling,
"Behold, our Savior!"

Into the darkness let us bear good tidings,
Tidings of peace and of our sins forgiveness;
Jesus has come, His people He is saving,
Praise to the Savior!

__________________________________________
Tune: Lebet Den Herren, Alle, Johann Cruger
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-08-27T12:10:00.002-04:00

Praise the Lord of All Creation

Praise the Lord of all creation,
Praise the Father's boundless love;
Praise to Christ for our salvation:
Prophet, Priest, and King above;
Praise the Spirit by Whose unction
All the ransomed now shall live;
Glory, praise, and adoration
To the Lord Almighty give.

______________________________
Tune: Sanctus, John Richards(Isalaw)
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-08-18T11:24:00.003-04:00

The Son of Man

I watched as thrones were put in place,
Ancient of Days was seated there;
He, clothed in garments white as snow,
And like pure wool, white was His hair.

His throne was like a fiery flame,
Its wheels a spinning, burning fire;
A fiery stream flowed from His throne,
His glory like the sun, but higher.

Before Him stood the angel host,
Ten thousand times ten thousand strong;
The court was set, judgment was made,
And pompous beasts to flames belong.

I watched the visions of the night,
Behold, One like the Son of Man;
Arising with the clouds of heav’n,
Before God’s throne He comes to stand.

To Him a kingdom was then given,
And the whole world shall bless His Day;
A glorious, everlasting reign,
Shall never end, nor pass away.

‘Tis Jesus Christ at God’s right hand,
And He shall conquer ev’ry foe;
Great honors shall His people bring,
As we His glories come to know.

______________________________
Tune: Erhalt Uns, Herr, Joseph Klug’s Geistliche Lieder, 1543
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

Singing School/Conference News

2008-08-13T07:34:00.004-04:00

Many thanks to Pastors Fleischmann and Weinbaum for their masterful lectures and to Neil Shah, our music director, for making our first Singing School/Conference a success! And thanks to Pastor Jim Dujack and the members and friends of Oakwood Bible Church
for their hospitality and hard work at learning the music. It was a joyful time of learning, fellowship, and singing with heart and voice to the Lord. We hope to have audio/video for you soon so y'all can see what goes on at a singing school...watch for it! (No, those are not the conference attendees!)

And watch for our next Singing School announcement...maybe you could attend.

A Heart & Voice update....

2008-07-31T14:11:00.005-04:00

Friends,

Heart & Voice will be heading up to Troy, NY next weekend for our first Singing School and conference with our good friends at Oakwood Bible Church. If you are in the area why not join us?
Here's the schedule:

August 9th, 2008
8:30 - 9:30
Registration ~ Coffee and Donuts
9:30 - 10:30
Session #1 Reformation Roots: Let God's People Sing! ~ Rev. John Fleischmann
10:30 - 10:45
Morning Break

10:45 - 11:45
Session #2 Singing School ~ Singing in 4-Part Harmony ~ Neil Shah

12:00 - 1:00
Lunch Break

1:00 - 2:00
Session #3 Shaping the Hymnody of American Voices ~ Rev. Ron Weinbaum

2:00 – 2:15 Afternoon Break

2:15 - 3:15
Session #4 Singing School ~ Singing in 4-Part Harmony (continued)

3:15 Closing

On Sunday I will be teaching the adult Sunday school class and preaching...continuing the theme of worship music that pleases Almighty God.

And furthermore, we are in the midst of planning a sacred music benefit concert, scheduled for December 6th. We hope to raise a nice donation for this worthy cause...Mercy Children's Home in Myanmar. If you can't make the concert, donations can be made through Sabbath House, a ministry of Christ Church, Moscow, ID.

Of course, you should click on over to Heart & Voice and try your hand...er voice at part-singing! We have a new song you can practice. Enjoy!

Blessings,

Pastor Brian L. Penney
Christ Covenant Church

2008-07-29T15:21:00.003-04:00

God Has Done Great Things for Us ~ Psalm 126

When the Lord brought back His people,
We were like the ones who dream;
Then our mouth was filled with laughter,
And our tongue rejoiced in song.
To the nations we now say,
"God has done great things for us!"

As the southern streams are flowing,
May the captive ones return;
Bring them back, O Lord, to Zion,
Bring them back from heathen lands.
To the nations we now say,
"God has done great things for us!"

Those who went forth with much weeping,
Bearing seed with which to sow;
Now shall come again rejoicing,
Bringing a rich harvest home.
To the nations we now say,
"God has done great things for us!"

______________________
Tune: Gott Des Himmels, Heinrich Albert, 1643
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-07-22T07:34:00.003-04:00

Like the Holy Mount of Zion
Psalm 125

Like the holy mount of Zion,
Are those who trust in God;
By faith they stand immovable,
Forever they abide.

And like the everlasting hills,
Is Zion's strength and pow'r;
For so the Lord surrounds His own,
Now and forevermore.

For the scepter of wickedness
Shall ne'er on Zion rest;
Lest the righteous reach out their hands,
And turn from righteousness.

Do good, O Lord, to all the good,
Bless the upright in heart;
But those who turn to crooked ways,
The Lord shall send afar.

O may the peace of God above,
Upon His people rest;
O may we know His love and grace,
As we His name confess.

________________________________
Tune: Northfield, Jeremiah Ingalls, 1805
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-07-15T11:16:00.003-04:00

Behold, My Son, My Servant

"Behold, My Son, My Servant,
in Whom My soul delights;
My Spirit is upon Him,
And He shall do what's right.
A bruised reed He will not break,
Nor quench a smoking flax;
For truth He brings forth justice,
By all His gracious acts."

Thus says the Lord Almighty,
Maker of heav'n and earth,
Creator of all people,
The One Who gives them breath;
"In righteousness I called You,
And I will hold Your hand;
I give You as a cov'nant,
A light to ev'ry land."

"Behold, My Son, My Servant,
In Whom My soul delights;
For those who sit in darkness,
He has become their light.
And new things I shall declare:
His foes shall Christ assail,
With zeal like a man of war,
Against them He'll prevail."

_____________________
Tune: Au Fort de Ma Detresse, French Psalter, 1539
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008, (from Isaiah 42)

Another for VBS

2008-07-10T15:09:00.004-04:00

The Song of Darius

To ev'ry tribe and nation,
To all who dwell on earth;
May peace be granted to you,
O, hear now your king's word:
In all parts of my kingdom
Let this be the decree--
Before the God of Daniel,
All men must bow the knee.

He is God ever-living,
And steadfast, always sure;
His kingdom's ever-lasting,
It shall fore'er endure.
Behold His rule is endless,
And who can stay His hand?
For His dominion's boundless,
And covers ev'ry land.

Lo, God works signs and wonders,
In heav'n and on the earth;
He has delivered Daniel,
Whom lions could not hurt.
Now ev'ry tribe and nation,
All peoples, hear your king:
Praised be the God of Daniel,
To Him your honors bring.

______________________________
Tune: Du Meine Seele Singe, Johann Ebeling, 1666
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-07-09T16:13:00.004-04:00

Upon the Serpent's Head He Stands

Upon the Serpent's head He stands,
Jesus Christ, the Son of Man;
Seed of the woman here below,
He has crushed our ancient foe.

(Chorus)
Now with joyous anthems singing,
We assemble at His throne;
We sing praise to our Redeemer,
We sing praise to Him alone.

Christ now plunders Satan's kingdom,
Binds the strong man in his home;
All the demons bow before Him,
Lord of lords, He rules o'er them.

(Chorus)

Let all nations beneath the sun,
Praise the King, the Holy One;
For Hell is vanquished, death is slain,
Earth and Heav'n are Christ's domain.

(Chorus)

_____________________________
Tune: Llansannan, Welsh Melody, harm., David Evans
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-07-08T15:10:00.004-04:00

Belshazzar’s Feast

There was a king of Babylon,
Belshazzar was his name;
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great--O!
He held a feast for all his lords,
A thousand of them came;
To the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!
They drank wine and praised their gods of gold and silver,
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!

But that same hour God’s hand appeared
And wrote upon the wall;
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!
Now King Belshazzar shook with fear,
His wise men he did call;
To the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!
But the wise men could not understand the writing,
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!

And then the Queen of Babylon
Spoke these words to the king;
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!
“Remember Daniel, man of God?
For he can tell this thing!”
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!
So the king called Daniel there to solve the riddle,
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!

So Daniel spoke, he told the king
The judgment of the Lord;
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!
“Your kingdom’s days are finished now,
It shall not be restored”
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!
On that night the king was slain, he lost his kingdom,
In the mighty halls of Babylon the great–O!

Tune: Jordan’s Shore, J.T. White, 1854
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008
(This song was written for Vacation Bible School...obviously not for corporate worship on the Lord's Day.)

Anthology of the American Hymn-Tune Repertory

2008-07-07T07:35:00.003-04:00

The House of Wisdom ~ Proverbs 9

The house of wisdom has been built
On seven pillars strong;
Her table set with meat and wine,
At this feast we belong.

She sends her maidens out to call,
And from the city's heights:
"Whoe'er is simple, turn in here,
Come learn of my delights."

"Come eat my bread and drink my wine,
Forsake the foolish way;
In understanding, guide your heart;
Live in the light of day.

The knowledge of the Holy One
Shall bless the wise man's ways;
The fear of God gives wisdom birth,
And shall increase your days.

________________________
Tune: St. Anne, William Croft, 1720
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-07-01T07:51:00.003-04:00

See the Living Stone
Psalm 118

See the living stone
That the builders did refuse;
Yet God has built His Church thereon:
Behold, good news!

Angry priest and scribe
Reject God's beloved Son;
Yet on this rock shall Zion rest,
This cornerstone.

This is of the Lord,
What a wonder to our eyes;
Then on this day the Lord has made,
Let joy arise!

Save now, Lord, I pray,
O Lord, send prosperity;
Hosanna to the King of kings,
God Almighty.

For God is the Lord;
To us He has given light.
You are my God, I will praise You,
With my might.

____________________________
Tune: Boze litosciwy, Mikolaj Gomolka
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-06-27T10:05:00.004-04:00

Come, Let Joyful Songs Arise
Psalm 96

Come let joyful songs arise,
In new exalted strains;
Lift your voices to the skies,
The Lord, Jehovah, reigns.
Sing a new song to the Lord,
And bless His holy name;
His salvation tell abroad,
From day to day proclaim.

Now before the nations sing,
And make His glories known;
To the Lord your praises bring,
For wonders He has shown.
Idol gods of lifeless stone,
Are made by foolish men;
Fear the Lord, and Him alone,
And let your praise ascend.

O give glory to the Lord,
Give glory to His name;
O give glory to the Lord,
His pow'r and strength proclaim.
Bring an off'ring, come bow down,
Into His courts draw near;
Worship at His temple now,
Tremble with godly fear.

Let the heav'ns and earth rejoice,
Let all creation sing;
Let all make a joyful noise,
To God their tribute bring.
For He comes to judge the earth,
A righteous Judge is He;
Of ev'ry heart He shall search,
With truth and equity.

___________________________
Tune: Błogosławiony człowiek (Psalm 1 tune), Waclaw z Szamotul
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-06-23T14:29:00.004-04:00

God is Our Refuge ~ Psalm 46

God is our refuge and our strength,
Our present help in troubles sore;
Though earth be moved, we will not fear;
Though mountains shake and waters roar.

There is a river by whose streams–
A river of refreshing grace,
Makes glad the city of our God;
Jerusalem, His dwelling place.

Since God is nigh, she stands unmoved,
Though nations rage, we shall not fear;
He speaks with pow’r, the kingdoms move;
He breaks the bow, He cuts the spear.

Be still and know that I am God,
Exalted over ev’ry land;
My praise extends throughout the earth,
My sovereignty forever stands.

The Lord of hosts shall ever be
Our hope, our strength, our refuge strong;
The God of Jacob guards His own,
Whose name alone inspires our song.

_________________________________________
Tune: St. Paul's, Anonymous
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-06-19T13:11:00.002-04:00

What Shall I Render to the Lord?

What shall I render to the Lord
For all His benefits to me?
Salvations' cup I'll take in hand,
And bless God for His mercy free.

Within His courts, I'll pay my vows,
And with His people thanks I'll bring;
A sacrifice of praise to God,
Let all His saints rejoice and sing--

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow,
Praise Him all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, you heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

Amen.

___________________________________
Tune: Tallis Canon, Thomas Tallis, 1560
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008 (verse 3, Thomas Ken, 1693

2008-06-19T13:03:00.002-04:00

Gloria in Excelsis (new)

Glory to God in highest heav’n,
On earth peace and goodwill toward men.
We praise You and we bless Your name;
With grateful thanks, Your glory proclaim;
Our adoration now we bring,
To You, O Lord, our heav’nly King;
With joy we glorify
Our Father, God Most High.

Lord Jesus Christ, O Holy One,
The Lamb of God, the Father’s Son;
Have mercy on us now we pray,
Take all our sin and guilt away;
At God’s right hand, upon the throne,
O Lord our King, the Cornerstone;
Have mercy, show us grace,
Before our Father’s face.

Come Holy Spirit, Light from above,
Inflame us with the Savior’s love;
A brighter faith and hope impart,
O write Your Law within our hearts;
And lead us in the way of Christ,
A holy, living sacrifice;
Come Holy Spirit, now,
Your saints with love endow.
___________________________________________
Tune: Macht Hoch Die Tur ~ Johann A. Freylinghausen, 1704
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2007

2008-06-11T11:44:00.002-04:00

Unless the House is Built by God Psalm 127

Unless the house is built by God,
The builders shall labor in vain;
If cities lack His watchful eye,
The watchman's vigil is in vain.

Why do you vainly rise at dawn,
And why in vain late hours keep?
Shall you the bread of sorrows eat?
Yet, God shall give His loved ones sleep.

Our children are God's heritage,
And the womb's fruit, a great reward;
Like arrows in the warrior's hand,
So are the children from the Lord.

Happy the man whose quiver is full,
Within the gates they have no shame;
Before their foes they speak with strength,
The blessing of a godly name.

___________________________
Tune: Wareham, William Knapp, 1738
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-06-10T10:41:00.006-04:00

We All Believe in One True God

We all believe in one True God,
Maker of heav'n and earth;
In Jesus Christ, His only Son,
Our Lord of matchless worth.

Who by the Spirit was conceived,
Born of the Virgin's womb;
Miraculous, mysterious,
To our lost world did come.

He suffered under Pilate's hand,
And on a cross He died;
His body placed within a tomb,
Where three days He must lie.

But death and hell could not contain
Our Lord, the mighty Son;
He rose triumphant from the grave,
O'er death the vict'ry won.

Then into heav'n ascending high,
He reigns at God's right hand;
And from His throne He'll come again,
As Judge o'er ev'ry land.

The Holy Spirit, we believe,
And in one, holy Church;
The blest communion of the saints,
From ev'ry land on earth.

And in the Gospel, we believe,
Sin's remedy in Christ;
The Resurrection of the dead,
And everlasting life.

Now we confess and we adore
The Father and the Son,
The Holy Spirit, all divine;
The Everliving One.

________________________________

Tune: Irish, folk song, 1749
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-06-02T13:13:00.005-04:00

O Blest is Every Man ~ Psalm 128

O, blest is ev’ry man who fears the Lord above,
Who walks within His ways,
From straight paths never moved.
And by his hands, So he shall eat, His labor’s sweet, A happy man! (2x)
Within his blessed home, his wife shall ever be,
A fruitful vine of joy,
That brings prosperity.
Like olive plants, His table ‘round, Children are found, Posterity! (2x)
The man who fears the Lord, such blessings he shall find;
Now to Jerusalem,
The Lord be good and kind.
And may you see, With happy eyes, Children arise, And Israel’s peace! (2x)

_____________________________
Tune: Lenox, Lewis Edson, 1782
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney 2008

2008-05-29T13:20:00.003-04:00

All Peoples, Come and Clap Your Hands
Psalm 47

All peoples, come and clap your hands,
to God lift up your voice;
The Lord Most High is the great King,
In triumph now rejoice.

Our God has gone up with a shout,
The Lord with trumpet sound;
For God is King o'er all the earth,
Now let all praise resound.

Sing praise to God, sing glorious praise,
Sing praises to our King;
With understanding, raise a shout,
Let ev'ry nation sing.

God sits upon His holy throne,
With princes gathered there;
All peoples bow before the Lord,
His vic'try they shall share.

_________________________
Tune: Mear, arr. William Knapp, 1738
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

The Wisdom of Solomon

2008-05-24T08:14:00.003-04:00

Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart

My son, do not forget my law,
Your heart keep my commands;
For length of days, long life, and peace,
Are yours from God's own hand.

Mercy and truth, do not forsake,
Write these upon your heart;
And in the sight of God and man,
Favor shall not depart.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
From wisdom do not stray;
In all you do acknowledge Him,
And He shall guide your way.

_________________________
Tune: 24th, attr. to Lucius Chapin, 1813
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

For Trinity Season...

2008-05-20T07:24:00.000-04:00

To Build His Holy Church

The Father, to our plight did send,
His Son, lost sinners to befriend;
The Spirit shall on us descend,
To build His holy Church.

The Spirit leads us to attend,
The cause of Christ, our King defend;
The Father’s glory is our end;
To build His holy Church.

Hold fast to Christ unto the end,
The Father’s love let us commend;
The Spirit be our guide to send,
And build His holy Church.
______________________________
tune: Isleworth, Samuel Howard, 1765
lyrics: Brian L. Penney 2008

2008-05-16T10:33:00.001-04:00

Before the Savior’s Heav’nly Throne

Before the Savior’s heav’nly throne, angels sing;
They worship Him, the Holy One, Mighty King.
Ten thousand times ten thousand, they loudly say:
“O worthy is the Lamb, Alleluia, Amen!”

With string-ed harps and golden bowls, bowing down,
They sing a new song to the Lord–-worthy Crown!
From ev’ry tribe and nation, by His own blood;
He has redeemed His people, Alleluia, Amen!

O worthy is the Lamb of God, Who was slain;
Who is, and was, and is to come—bless His Name;
All praise and honor be to Him, upon the throne;
And to the Lamb forever, Alleluia, Amen!

All glory be to God alone, Sacred Three;
To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Trinity.
Let all on earth and heav’n above, with shouts of joy,
Sing of God’s gracious favor, Alleluia, Amen!

___________________________________
tune: 15th Century Basque Carol
lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-05-14T07:45:00.002-04:00

Jehovah, How My Foes Increase
Psalm 3

Jehovah, how my foes increase,
And those who bring trouble my way;
They all rise up against me.
I hear their taunts both night and day:
“There is no help for him," they say,
"His God shall not sustain him.”

But You, Jehovah, are my shield,
My glory, O most glorious One;
The One Who lifts up my head.
I cried to You, my voice was heard,
You did not turn away from me,
From Zion’s hill You answered.

I lay me down, in restful sleep,
All through the darkness of the night;
I woke, the Lord had sustained me.
I will not fear, though countless foes
Encamp themselves on every side;
The Lord Himself is with me.

Arise, O Lord, save me, my God!
For You have struck my enemies
Upon the cheek, shattered their teeth;
Salvation belongs to our God!
Your blessings are forever found,
Upon Your favored people.

_____________________________
Tune: Kommt Her Zu Mir, 15th century German traditional
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney 2008

Benediction & Blessing

2008-05-09T07:58:00.004-04:00

To Him Who keeps your feet from stumbling,
Presents you faultless at His throne;
Before His face with joy exceeding,
To God our Savior, wise alone,
Be glory, majesty, and pow'r,
Both now and forever, Amen!

The Lord forever bless and keep you,
The Lord His face upon you shine,
With gracious favor look upon you,
And in His love grant, peace divine;
From Father, Son and Holy Ghost,
Both now and forever, Amen!

___________________
Tune:O Dass Ich Tausend Zungen Hatte, Johann Balthasar Konig, 1738
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

For Ascension....

2008-05-01T14:04:00.002-04:00

Men of God, Behold He Calls Us

Men of God, behold He calls us,
King of kings, our Captain, Jesus;
To the battle He shall lead us,
Into every land.

Christian soldiers, to your stations;
Go now into every nation,
With the Gospel of salvation;
'Tis our Lord’s command.

See His banners flowing,
Mighty weapons showing;
Satan’s horde, before the Lord,
Shall soon their knees be bowing!

Onward! Like the tireless ocean,
All hold fast with strong devotion!
Men of God, press on to glory,
Faithful to the end!

Fierce the battle, see it raging;
Let no fear, your hearts engaging,
Follow Christ, His Truth proclaiming;
Jesus’ name defend!

Wicked powers may try to shake you,
Smite, pursue, and overtake you;
Men of God, His grace shall make you,
Victors in the end.
(Refrain)

Men of God, a crown awaits us;
Fix your eyes on Christ before us;
Hear, “Well done!” for faithful service;
Glory to our King!

Now with joy, Christ’s praises sounding;
Over all the world resounding,
Christendom extends its bounding;
Glory to our King!
(Refrain)

____________________________
Tune: March of the Men of Harlech, Welsh National Melody, 1873
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

New Team Member

2008-04-23T09:33:00.008-04:00

Neil Shah is the Music Director at Kings Highway Reformed Church in
Brooklyn, NY and will be a music teacher with their Genesis Classical
Cooperative School starting in the Fall 2008. He has been the choir
accompanist at St. Mary's Preparatory School in Manhasset, NY for the
past five years. Mr. Shah composes music for film and television, and
frequently performs and records as a pianist for established New York
City recording artists. He holds a Master of Music degree in jazz
studies from the University of North Texas.

Heart & Voice is pleased to have Neil as our chief musician.
His help in creating the music files for our website and doing
musical notation work for original music will invaluable. But as
you can see from his bio, he brings many talents to the ministry
of H&V. We're are thrilled to welcome him to the team!

2008-04-16T11:24:00.000-04:00

Daniel’s Song

Blessed be the name of God forever,
Blessed be His name.
In wisdom, times and seasons changing,
Blessed be His name.

He Knows the deep and secret things,
The darkness, He reveals;
He dwells arrayed in glorious light,
So I will bless His name. (Refrain)

God removes kings or He may enthrone them,
Blessed be His name.
He gives wisdom to the wise, and knowledge,
Blessed be His name.

(Refrain)

O God of my fathers, I will thank You,
Blessed be Your name.
You have given me wisdom for the asking,
Blessed be Your name.

(Refrain)

_______________________________
Tune: Sweet Prospect, William Walker, 1833
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-04-15T08:50:00.003-04:00

The Fiery Furnace

Praise the Lord, God of our fathers,
We exalt Your holy name;
We extol You, give You glory;
For You to our rescue came.
Within Your glorious Temple,
Praise to You, Who rides upon the cherubim;
High exalted forevermore.

Praise the Lord, O heav’ns of heavens,
Sing His praise, angels on high;
Sing His praise, O all creation,
Let your voices fill the sky.
Sun and moon, O stars of heaven,
Seas and rivers, mighty winds upon the earth;
Praise the Lord forevermore.

Praise the Lord, all you His servants,
Sing His praises, you sons of men;
All you priests who stand before Him,
Blow your trumpets and shout, Amen!
Praise the Lord, souls of the righteous,
Sing for joy, you who are the holy, humble in heart;
And exalt Him forevermore.

Praise the Lord, O Hanaiah,
Azariah, and Mishael;
For He’s rescued you from danger,
From the furnace, a burning hell.
In the midst of flaming fire, there to save you–
The mighty Lord, the Son of God;
Let His praise sound forevermore!

_______________________________
tune: Bryn Calfaria, William Owen, 1890
lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

Let's Have a Round of Billings

2008-04-09T07:38:00.003-04:00

Come All You Children

Come all you children join to sing,
And praise the name of Christ our King;
He is our Savior and our Lord;
He’s shown to us His covenant love,
He’s poured out blessings from above;
His Name forever be adored!

______________________________
Tune: Wake Every Breath, William Billings,
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

2008-04-07T08:08:00.002-04:00

The King of Glory

Lift up your heads, you mighty gates,
Lift up, you everlasting doors!
The King of glory enters in;
Lift up, lift up, He shall come in.

Who is this glorious King to come?
What is His name, this mighty One?
The King of kings, the Lord of lords–
‘Tis Jesus Christ, the Son of God!

Lift up your heads, you mighty gates,
Lift up, you everlasting doors!
The Lord strong and mighty in battle did save;
The Lord Jesus Christ, His people did save!

Now in His courts, at His Table we meet,
To celebrate the victory feast.
With joy of salvation, the taste is sweet;
The Bread and Wine mark Death’s defeat.

____________________________
Tune: Brookfield, William Billings, 1770
Lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

Psalm & Hymn Sing with Kings Highway Reformed Church

2008-03-17T14:52:00.008-04:00

2008-03-14T11:52:00.006-04:00

Lift Up Your Heart

Lift up your heart, your off’rings bring;
Lift up your voice, His praises sing;
With heart and voice, to God give praise,
With thankful hearts, sing of His grace.

‘Twas by the Father’s sovereign plan,
To give His Son, and made like man;
To bear our sins upon the Tree,
From sin and death to set us free.

Look to the heav’ns at God’s right hand,
Behold the risen Son of Man;
See our High Priest, our Savior, King;
Now at His footstool tribute bring.

His Kingdom comes by pow’r divine,
Not by the arms of man’s design;
But by the Spirit from above,
Who fills our hearts with faith and love.

Now to the Father, and the Son,
And to the Spirit, Three in One;
With heart and voice, to God give praise,
With thankfulness for all our days.
___________________________________
tune: Cameronian Midnight Hymn (Scottish tune)
lyrics: Brian L. Penney, 2008

Heart & Voice Website

2008-02-05T07:37:00.000-05:00

We are happy to report that the Heart & Voice website is up and running. Many thanks to Alexis Stevenson for the fine job on the site.

www.heartandvoice.net

We will be adding more songs and articles in the near future, so keep an eye out for new stuff. Also, watch for more details on the Singing Schools . We have two scheduled:
April 26th at Christ Covenant Church, Copiague, NY, and August 9th at Oakwood Bible Church, Troy, NY.

If any local folks would like to sing in our choir, give a call: 631-594-1377. The choir will be singing for recordings to go on our website, for CDs that we will produce, and for local singing events, such as at nursing homes, churches, Christian schools, and homeschool gatherings.

2008-01-15T13:17:00.000-05:00

The Word of God calls on the people of God to sing, to sing joyfully and skillfully as is fitting to the worship of our great Creator and Redeemer. Singing with joy and skill takes instruction, effort, and practice. Not everyone can sing like Pavarotti; not everyone can sing with a commanding solo voice. And who said we had to? Just as the Scriptures tell us that we are members of the Body of Christ, and each member has a different function in the Body, so it is with singing in congregational worship.

But for many, worship psalms and hymns, whether contemporary or traditional, are almost impossible to sing. Is everyone a soprano? Is everyone a tenor? Why do they write songs like that? What is the solution? Well, the solution is finding your place, finding your voice! You see, if you have a bass voice, there’s no sense in singing the melody an octave lower (which usually doesn’t work throughout the whole song anyway). The solution is singing the harmony part written especially for a bass voice, or the alto voice or the tenor voice.

This is where Heart & Voice can solve the problem! We will teach you to sing a harmony part that fits your voice range, and the result will be this: joyful and skillful singing to the glory of God! That’s our purpose in this website, our Singing School, our choir and our CD recordings...to provide you with the resources you need to improve your singing in congregational worship.

Above you see the Heart & Voice purpose statement that will be on the forthcoming website. We hope to have the website up and running sometime in January. It is our prayer that this ministry would be a catalyst in encouraging not only great singing, but great congregational singing, and lead toward a return to what is called in our circles, Covenant Renewal Worship. So many churches have dumped “traditional” music and “traditional” liturgies, and have bought into a “contemporary” service that conforms to the surrounding culture, rather than training that culture in biblical forms of music and worship. We want to change that trend, and we want to do it with beauty and excellence, so that what we say and do are attractive to those who have never experienced the great music of the Church( old and new), nor Her great liturgical traditions.

Please pray for this ministry! Thanks!

Pastor Brian

Heart & Voice test video

2008-01-03T15:09:00.000-05:00

Here is a test video that we may use pointing to our forthcoming website. Many thanks to Jonathan Penney!

Merry Christmas

2008-01-03T07:57:00.000-05:00

A Virgin Most Blessed

A virgin most blessed, as the prophets did proclaim,
Gave birth to a baby, and Jesus was His name;
To be our Redeemer from death, hell and sin,
Which Adam's transgression had wrapped us in.

In Bethlehem of Judah, a city far away,
Poor Joseph and Mary sought a place they could stay;
And there to be registered with all of there kin,
For Caesar had commanded; they were of David’s line.

But when they had entered that city so small,
They found at the inn there no lodging at all.
Then were they constrained in a stable to stay,
Where horses and cattle were given their hay;

So in that rude stable, our Saviour was born,
The King of all kings, on that first Christmas morn;
There Mary had swaddled her young son so sweet,
In a manger for oxen, she laid him to sleep.

Then God sent His angels in glory shining bright;
To shepherds of that country, watching flocks by night.
And to them was given good news of great joy;
A Saviour, Christ the Lord, is born to you this day.

Rejoice and be merry,
Put sorrows away!
Christ Jesus, our Saviour,
Was born for us this day.
So we, like the angels who sing glory above,
Give praise to the Lord, Who has shown to us His love!

_________________________________
lyrics: English traditional Carol ~ revised Rev. Brian L. Penney
tune: Virgin Most Pure

2007-10-01T10:47:00.001-04:00

From the upcoming brochure:

"Heart & Voice is an educational ministry promoting Christian worship practices, and music that is biblically and historically informed. Drawing from the teaching and examples found in both the Old and New Testaments of Holy Scripture; and from the liturgies and music developed in the Church down to our present day, Heart & Voice is here to provide training and resources for churches, pastors, music leaders, and individuals.

There are rich resources in the Scriptures, and in the liturgies past and present, that will lead God's people toward worship services and music that are more joyous, more robust, more profound, more edifying to the churches, and more pleasing to God. Our mission is to provide those resources in a helpful way in our generation."

The lyrics to the hymn below, found in a psalter published by the Presbyterian Publication Committee 1847, were revised ...apologies to Phillip Doddridge.

~ Dry Bones ~

Look down, O Lord, with gracious eye,
See Adam’s race in ruin lie;
Sin spreads its mis’ry all around
And dead men’s bones pollute the ground.

O, can these dead awake and live?
And can these sun-parched bones revive?
That, sovereign Lord, to You is known,
That wondrous work is all Your own.

Your prophets speak their words in vain,
To prophesy upon the slain;
In vain they call, in vain they cry, -
Till Your almighty aid is nigh.

But if Your Spirit gives them breath,
Life spreads through all the realms of death;
Dry bones obey Your mighty voice,-
They move, they waken, they rejoice!

So, when Your trumpet’s awful sound
Shall shake the heav’ns, and rend the ground;
Dead saints shall from their tombs arise,
To meet their Lord beyond the skies.

________________________________
lyrics: Phillip Doddridge ~revised by Rev Brian L. Penney
tune: ~Mendon L.M.

Heidelberg Q/A 1

2007-08-18T16:57:00.001-04:00

The Heidelberg Catechism is one our doctrinal standards at Christ Covenant Church. It has been around since 1563, and has been the much-loved tool of teaching the Reformed Faith in many churches that have Reformation roots. Probably the most familiar Q/A is the first one, and it captures well the basics of personal faith in Christ. CCC has a new children's Sunday School class coming up in September and the song below is an attempt to put Q/A 1 into song. You can find the tune here:
http://www.ccel.org/cceh/0000/000075a.mid

I Belong to Jesus

Oh, what is your comfort, in life and in death?
And where does your hope, and your confidence rest?
That I, with both body and soul, do belong
To Jesus my Savior, to Him alone.

He's paid for my sins with His own precious blood;
He loved me, forgave me, and promised me good.
From all of the pow'r of the Devil set free;
He's purchased my pardon, He ransomed me.

My heavenly Father, in love, day by day,
Preserves me and keeps me in such a way,
Not even a hair can fall from my head;
But works together for salvation, instead.

And now by the Spirit, the Spirit divine,
He also assures me that His life is mine;
And so makes me willing and ready to live,
A life that is pleasing, obedient to Him.

___________________________
lyrics: Rev. Brian L. Penney 2007 (from the Heidelberg Cathecism Q/A 1)
tune: "I Love Thee", Jeremiah Ingalls, 1805

My Neighbor

2007-08-01T09:39:00.000-04:00

Heart & Voice associate Rev. John Fleischmann (pastor of Christ Evangelical Lutheran Church, East Moriches, NY) wrote the hymn below recently, one of many songs he has written. Once we get rolling we hope to feature other Psalms & Hymns, not only by Pastor Fleischmann and Pastor Penney, but other composers and lyricists as well. If you, dear reader, would like to submit any original compositions, or if you know of someone who might, please contact me: blp22@optonline.net

This blog, we hope, will be just a beginning of our modest attempts at encouraging liturgical renewal and reformation.

Blessings,

Rev. Brian L. Penney
Christ Covenant Church
Copiague, NY

My Neighbor

Unclean and battered, torn by sin,
By things I do, my thoughts within,
I lie there bloodied on life's road
With death and hell my only load.

Across that road the world passed by
Turning a deaf ear to my cry,
No help to give, they could not save
And so they left me for my grave.

And, what of me, when I saw need,
did I my Savior's bidding heed?
Too often on the other side
I've walked away because of pride.

Sin bleeds from me and stops my breath,
In Adam all I know is death,
My works are rags, my offerings vain,
From dust I came, in dust remain.

But in my need my Savior died,
Not passing on the other side.
Re-breathed His Spirit in my dust,
Bound up my wounds, declared me just.

Now, safe within His Church I'm free;
Blood, Water, Spirit plead for me,
The Ark of God, the Inn of Grace,
Where I behold the Father's Face.

May I in Christ my neighbor know,
Binding wounds serves Christ below;
Make me Your Arms, Your Hands, Your Eyes,
So that in You he may arise.

You loved me when I could not love,
For my sin barred me from above;
In Christ my love is now set free,
O praise and bless the Trinity!

Text: John George Fleischmann, b. 1960
Tune: Tallis' Canon

Non-rhyming versification of Psalm 147

2007-06-01T16:10:00.000-04:00

Praise the Lord, For it is Good ~ Psalm 147

Praise the Lord!
For it is good to sing praises to our God.
Praise the Lord!
For it is pleasant, a psalm of praise is beautiful.
The Lord builds Jerusalem;
He brings all His outcast ones home.
Heals His brokenhearted people;
And He binds up all their wounds.

Who is this Who counts the stars;
He Who calls them all by name?
Great Jehovah, God Almighty;
His understanding knows no end.
The Lord lifts up His humble people;
He casts the wicked down to the ground.
Sing, o sing heart-felt thanksgiving;
Sing praises on the harp to God.

Who is this Who clouds the heavens;
Who prepares the rain for earth?
Great Jehovah, God Almighty;
His mighty power knows no end.
He makes the grass to grow on the mountains;
He gives to every beast its food.
Oh what power, what condescension,
To care for ravens as they cry!

Does God care for the strength of horses;
Does He consider the legs of man?
God takes pleasure in those who fear Him;
In those who hope in His mercy sure.
Praise the Lord, Jerusalem!
Praise your God, O city beloved!
He has strengthened your gates, O Zion;
Peace and prosperity are yours within.

God commands, and His word runs swiftly;
He sends His voice into all the earth.
Snow like wool and frost like ashes;
He casts out hail, who can stand His cold?
He sends out His word and melts them;
His wind to blow and the waters flow.
Great Jehovah, God Almighty;
Who is like our sovereign Lord?

Sons of Jacob, His chosen people;
Seed of the covenant with Abraham;
God has given you His word, His statutes;
Precepts, and judgments to Israel.
He has dealt thus with no other nation;
All His judgments, they have not known.
Praise the Lord!
For it is good to sing praises to our God.

Lyrics: Rev. Brian L. Penney 2007
Tune: Gwalia

2007-05-30T11:14:00.001-04:00

Welcome to Heart & Voice....

There is a River

There is a river ever-flowing,

That makes the hearts of Christians glad;
A stream of grace that’s never-ending,
E’en though their lives are oft-times sad.
A well of living water flows,
Unto all those the Savior knows.

Our fathers baptized into Moses,
All ate the manna, spiritual food;
Their drink was more than man supposes,
God in His love gives all things good.
He gave them Christ to be their Head,
The Living Water, Living Bread.

Now unto to us a cup of blessing,
A true communion in Christ’s blood;
The holy bread we are partaking,
Body of Christ, is our true food.
“Take, eat, and drink,” the Savior said,
“I give you life, life from the dead!”

Come to the river ever-flowing,
Christ has redeemed us, be not sad;
Drink of His mercies never-ending,
Lift up your hearts, rejoice, be glad!
Now at His Table, let us raise;
Voices to God in endless praise.

Rev. Brian L. Penney ~ 2007
(sung to the tune ~ Neumark)