“If music be the food of love, play on….” The words of Shakespeare re-echoed in my mind as delegates discussed the Church Manual revisions on music. Adventists love their music but many also see music within their church as an evangelistic tool, not just for the congregation, but for the musicians themselves.

Debate thus focused around a change of wording from “They should be members of the church, or the Sabbath School, or the Adventist Youth Society…” to “It is preferable that they be members…”

Discussion was perhaps focused by Paul Petersen from the South Pacific who testified that he became an Adventist because he was invited to sing in the choir by a member. Many delegates made similar statements, including Brian Mercer, a school principle from Australia who pointed out that half his school choir are excluded by the word “should.”

On the other side of the debate, concern was expressed by Duncan Odhiambo Mumbo from East Africa. He represented the concerns of those who felt that liberalizing the wording would cause tensions as it would more easily allow some on the fringe of the church to participate. He was strongly supported by Dioniso Olivo who felt that “should” allowed participation but emphasized an ideal of membership.

However, most delegates emphasized the redemptive nature of non-members participating in the music of the church with an emphasis on keeping the language inclusive. May the music continue.