Gilford Community Church (GCC) recently renamed its music room to honor the contributions of Music Director/Organist Carolyn Ames, who has served in this capacity since 2006.
“My late husband, David, and I had church shopped before we moved here permanently,” said Ames. “We found GCC to be very welcoming and were impressed by their community outreach. This church is family. We help each other in difficult as well as happy times.”
This willingness to help was apparent during the pandemic, as Ames and the choir became creative with how they shared music with the congregation. “During the pandemic, a small group of members and musicians prerecorded all the music, as we could not have choir participation,” she noted.
It was this dedication to “carrying on despite challenging circumstances” that led Pastor Michael Graham and church leadership to name their music room in her honor. “Carolyn truly helped carry on our services during the pandemic,” he said. “This dedication is only fitting for her hard work these many years.”
Regarding the accolade, Ames described her initial reaction as one of surprise. “I was very touched by the naming of the choir room,” she said. “It was such a surprise, and I am honored. This church family and choir are a true blessing.”
Graham agreed and added, “We are all blessed to be part of this wonderful community that extends far beyond our church walls.”
Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.
“My late husband, David, and I had church shopped before we moved here permanently,” said Ames. “We found GCC to be very welcoming and were impressed by their community outreach. This church is family. We help each other in difficult as well as happy times.”
This willingness to help was apparent during the pandemic, as Ames and the choir became creative with how they shared music with the congregation. “During the pandemic, a small group of members and musicians prerecorded all the music, as we could not have choir participation,” she noted.
It was this dedication to “carrying on despite challenging circumstances” that led Pastor Michael Graham and church leadership to name their music room in her honor. “Carolyn truly helped carry on our services during the pandemic,” he said. “This dedication is only fitting for her hard work these many years.”
Regarding the accolade, Ames described her initial reaction as one of surprise. “I was very touched by the naming of the choir room,” she said. “It was such a surprise, and I am honored. This church family and choir are a true blessing.”
Graham agreed and added, “We are all blessed to be part of this wonderful community that extends far beyond our church walls.”
Located in Gilford, NH, GCC is an inclusive, open community with a broadly ecumenical spirit that welcomes people from all denominational and cultural backgrounds. Viewable live on YouTube, services take place at 10 a.m. on Sundays at 19 Potter Hill Rd., Gilford, NH.