First Congregational United Church of Christ
Decatur, IL 62526-1450 217.877.2216
Music Ministries
First Church Choir
The Choir performs every Sunday from September to May, with rehearsals taking place on Thursday evenings from 7:00 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. We explore a diverse range of anthems from various composers, as well as special music during the Advent and Lenten seasons. We welcome capable students and adults, and no audition is necessary—just a passion for serving Him through the wonderful gift of music.
The Irving Memorial Organ
Our pipe organ, dedicated in 1958 in loving memory of Florence Bernice and Edward Peek Irving, was crafted by Casavant Freres Organ Builders. Renowned for creating pipe organs for churches and concert halls, Casavant Freres remains one of the leading organ builders globally. Our instrument features 3 manuals (keyboards), 27 stops, 34 ranks of pipes, a Zimblestern, and a full set of Maas chimes. In 2025, the organ was updated by Watson Pipe Organ Company of Galesburg, IL, and we feel truly blessed to incorporate this instrument into our weekly worship.
Handbell Choir
The Church has five octaves of Schulmerich handbells three octaves of Malmark chimes along with an extensive handbell music library. Handbell Choir meets on specials occasions and plays during the Advent/Christmas season, during Lent/Easter and at other times throughout the year.
Music For A Season of JOY
In recent years, the Church sponsors concerts during the Advent and Christmas season called Music For A Season of JOY. The programs focus upon music of the season and often showcase local talent. The concerts are free and open to the public with one concert in the afternoon and the other in the evening. It is our gift to the Decatur community and our desire to offer some moments of beautiful sounds and simple joys.
Summer Gospel Choir and Summer Music
In the summer months, our talented members share their gifts of music and once a month we meet for Gospel Choir where we sing some of the beloved old hymns of our heritage. We meet early on Sunday morning for rehearsal and non-choir members are welcomed to participate.
The Music Ministry of First Congregational United Church of Christ has a three-fold mission:
​
-
To prepare music that blesses our worship experiences each week and draws people into the presence of God;
​
-
To encourage and develop the gifts and talents that God has given to His people for ministry within His Church and the greater community;
​
-
To grow deeper in our relationship with Jesus Christ and each other through our ministry with the music and texts we share.
Children's Music Programs
Children and Youth participate in our annual Christmas pageant during the Advent season. We held a week-long Ukulele Camp for students in 2023.Other music and art events are being planned for the future.
Our Music Minister
A native of NE Ohio, Rev. Michael Waltenberger has served full-time in music ministry for more than 40 years. He is delighted to serve at First Congregational as Organist and Choir Director and is grateful for the wonderful suport of the Choir and Congregation. He volunteers doing music weekly for All God's Children Pre-School and serves in various capacities in church life.