Willow Grove Church to Hold Mardi Gras Jazz Worship Service

The following information was provided by Willow Grove Presbyterian Church.

On Sunday, February 10, we invite the community to our seventh annual Willow Grove Presbyterian Church Mardi Gras Jazz Worship Service beginning at 10:00 am at the church in Scotch Plains. A delicious brunch will follow the service. 
 
Willow Grove Church's Pastor, The Rev. Cynthia Cochran-Carney, gives perspective on the celebration. "Although the current traditions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans seem far from a Christian celebration of God's love for humanity in Jesus Christ, we can reclaim those religious roots and enjoy the rich musical traditions of jazz, gospel and spirituals that give a voice to our faith." 

Listen to and sing a variety of jazz gospel pieces and spirituals, including the choir in an arrangement of "Keep Your Lamps Trimmed and Burning” and a finale of "When the Saints Go Marching In.” This year’s music will feature the Dixie Mix Dixieland Band which has been performing since 1995 throughout Central New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, including the rotunda at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark and the Raritan Valley Theater in Branchburg. The quintet consists of Mike Green from Frenchtown on cornet, Alex Duque from Bridgewater on string bass, Frank Narucki from Paterson on clarinet, David Grego from Hoboken on tuba, Doug Rollender (Director) from Bridgewater on trombone, and Willow Grove Church's Director of Music Paul DiDario from South Plainfield on piano.

Childcare and children's classes are provided, but children are also welcome to remain in the worship service. 

We invite all worshippers to stay and join us for brunch, featuring shrimp gumbo, Bourbon chicken,  ham & egg casserole, and dessert. Cost is $5 per person, children under 5 are free, with a maximum cost of $20 per family.  If possible, make reservations by Thursday, February 7 by calling the church office, (908) 232-5678 or by email at office@willowgrovechurch.org.

Willow Grove Presbyterian Church (PCUSA) is located in Scotch Plains at 1961 Raritan Road, across the street from the Scotch Plains Southside Firehouse and Southside Soccer Field, and near the corner of South Martine Avenue. All our facilities are handicap-accessible. Check our website for other ministries. www.willowgrovechurch.org  We look forward to your joining us to jazz things up!