I want to thank Jeff for his complimentary remarks concerning my tenure as Minister of Music at First Baptist Church of Sylva. I certainly have been blessed during my service here, which began on 9/18/83. It has been my pleasure to serve along with Dr. John Bunn, Dr. Hal Salisbury, Dr. Bunn (yes, again), Rev. Roger Williams, Rev. Ed Beddingfield, Rev. Jack Hinson, Dr. Wayne Hill, Dr. Jack Bishop, Rev. Kenny Bird, Dr. Bill Henderson, and Dr. Mathis. (I might have missed an interim pastor, or two??). I have loved and prayed for all of them, and have worked together effectively in worship planning and several other ministries of the church. One of the main reasons I have remained in this leadership role is the support of the music staff and the choir members through the years. We work diligently to prepare musical presentations, but it takes a level of talent and commitment that many congregations do not have available. The tradition of excellence in music was well established before I was hired, and our pastors and members of the congregation value and appreciate the music ministry we offer. Thank you for that continued support!
One of the preparations that I am doing, looking forward to the Homecoming '23 event, is calling former choir members, inviting them to join us for this occasion. Many of these names are former WCU students (over 70) along with another 40 who have moved from here, or are attending other churches. Of course, it is wonderful to hear their voices again, and to catch up on news they have to share. So many of them have made a special point of recalling what it meant to them to be part of a community of worshiping Christians during their student days. They developed friendships and relationships with people in the church. They came to our church, because I asked them to sing in the choir (or because they asked me if they could come to sing in the choir), but they established a church life at Sylva FBC during their student days. That was very significant, and the members of our congregation always made them feel welcome in so many ways.
My family, and Barb's family live in northern Wisconsin, nearly 1,100 miles from us. This church family has always been important to us, because you are the people we are closest to, beyond our biological families. The distance factor has been an issue for many things, although advances in technology have made things much more convenient, concerning communication. This body of believers has often provided the support we needed, and our closest friendships are among the members of the church. Make no mistake--church family relationships are very important. They should not be taken for granted, and should be nourished. There's no doubt that your relationships with those who who are no longer here has made a lasting positive impression. I am sure that these recipients of graciousness have passed on the kindness.
Bob Holquist
Minister of Music