Eight years ago, I raced down the hallway of the Biola University Conservatory and told a friend that I wanted to host a traditional worship chapel. My ever-patient and generous friends volunteered their voices and helped me borrow hymnals from the seminary (I think we had permission…?). We figured a few people who owed me favors would turn up and instead were met with a full house of students, faculty, and even community members!
The above video captures the moment that I realized what I wanted to do with my life: encourage the saints to sing, whether through worship leading or writing. Well, realistically, it wasn’t this moment alone. This realization dawned on me slowly through many seemingly ordinary rehearsals, services, and practice sessions. But this moment was pivotal. Launching and leading three “Praise Hymn” chapels was one of the most marvelous experiences of my time at Biola. I am so thankful that the conservatory faculty took me seriously and graciously let me follow this passion.
This one unusual, sudden project during my sophomore year of college set the course of my life far more than I could have known. Now, I’m wrapping up my first contracted book on musical worship. The highlights of my week are directing a church choir on Wednesdays and worshiping with two wonderful congregations on Sundays. My modulations and hymn-playing (thankfully) are much better than in this video, where I was scared out of my mind.
Anyway, I guess all I’m trying to say is that I am overwhelmed with nostalgia and gratitude.
This is my story.
This is my song.
My Lord was directing
My paths all along.
Ryanne Molinari 