by Ruth Schwalm

In gratitude for the ability to hold rehearsals in the sanctuary of the Shiremanstown United Methodist Church for the past three years, the El Shaddai Singers requested the opportunity to present a concert in the Fellowship Center during our year-long bicentennial celebration. The evening of March 26th was agreed upon.

Led by Mrs. Sue Schreiner of York County and accompanied by pianist Cindy Mallow, the "Singers" have been in existence for 12 years and are representative of all denominations. Of the 125 members, approximately 90 participated in this concert. Members were dressed in black and white. The women wore identical white blouses and sheer black scarves with gold metallic sequins and the word "Jesus" woven throughout. Most of the "Singers" were middle-aged or older; some sat while performing.

The El Shaddai Singers have the following as their creed: "It is our desire to glorify God as we make music and worship Him. Please join us in worship of "El Shaddai," God Almighty. Feel free to sing along, clap, close yourself in with Christ, lift up your hands, bow, or whatever He calls you to do. Come, now is the time to worship. Now is the time to give Him your heart."

Rev. John A. Ile, Pastor of Shiremanstown United Methodist Church, presided during the evening event. He introduced Mrs. Schreiner and Cindy Mallow, then led the congregation in singing the hymn, "Standing on the Promises." He next read portions of scripture from the Psalms and led the group in prayer.

At the request of the El Shaddai Singers, Rev. Ile shared the history of the Shiremanstown United Methodist Church as published in the Bicentennial Program-Bulletin for March 19, 2000.

Selections presented by the El Shaddai Singers were:

"Come Thou Almighty King"

"If It Keeps Getting Better and Better"

"Bless His Mighty Name"

"Think About His Love"

"Hymn of Desire"

"Anticipation"

The lyrics of the signature closing number "Anticipation" included the themes "Can’t Wait to See Him" and "Come and Go With Me."

The congregation found the message of Christ and His salvation presented in word and song truly inspiring, and participated freely with singing, clapping, and praying.

After the Benediction by Rev. Ile, the hymn "Because He Lives" was sung lustily.

The evening ended in a time of rich fellowship and the enjoyment of delicious refreshments provided and served by members of the church’s choir.

It should be noted that photographs of the El Shaddai Singers were taken for historical purposes.

The mailing address of the group is: The El Shaddai Singers

PO Box 924

Camp Hill PA 17011

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