Church Choirs Sing Out
Song has long been an important facet of worship services within the Baptist church, and many churches spend long hours rehearsing their choir. Traditionally poorer than Catholic churches, the Baptists replaced expensive organs with people who expressed their faith through song. Many of these churches eventually formed their own choirs, and the congregation was invited to sing along with them as they performed. Belonging to the choir is considered tithing to the church in some congregations.
Not all Baptists sing, but the majority do enjoy listening to the choir perform. Its popularity has led many churches to formalize their choirs, and donations are often sought to provide matching robes and musical instruments to accompany the performers. Joining the choir often entails a commitment to attending all rehearsals, and many members also commit to a schedule of performing at local nursing homes and other events outside the church.