http://www.reverbnation.com/play_now/4768267 for "We’re Gonna Stay” [on LW’s “Refresh”]
June 18, 2011: Living Waters played for the Wedding ceremony of Jon & Caroline. It was very special for Julia and me because Caroline's parents, John & Joyce, had chosen us to be the Godparents, even though we are not technically family; but we were part of the Living Waters ‘family’. We were bursting with joy and pride and happiness that she graduated, is getting a house, is so talented and accomplished, but mostly this wonderful man, Jon, that the Good God has provided for her in her life, despite all those crazy troubles she’s had that none of us can escape. Just so proud and pleased!
I dare say, the music was “anointed”, as God always seems to do; I don’t know why I’m so surprised every time. This despite massive confusion, lost music, contradicting directions, tough logistics – none of it mattered, it sounded beautiful. The blending of voices, the beautiful melding of instrumental poetry simply makes me glad I’m alive. Originals Mark, Dave, Denise, Greg & Tonester on drums (YES, drums in church; it was holy & wonderful) were joined by children Dan, Matt & Josh. These three young men pulled off an extraordinary acoustic version of Pachelbel’s artillery Canon. Greg & his son transformed an Eddie Vedder instrumental into a perfect Bride’s entrance. Caroline’s mother processed to the very same song that HER mother had processed to (played by Living Waters at her wedding 25 years ago)! John, the father of the Bride came up to sing the Psalm “Set Me Like a Seal” (from the Song of Songs); that was awesome; perfect. But the clincher was when the Bride & Groom came over after Communion to join us for “We Are One Body” by Dana. [Caroline’s always been a great singer and Jon knows his music and played guitar.] Not only does this express that they are being joined but also that we are all joined to them and supporting them in the Body of Christ! Absolutely profound and touching for everyone, I think.
![]()
Then there was the reception. One extraordinary moment was when Joline walked in, what should come on over the loudspeaker but “We’re Gonna Stay”, the song celebrating marriage from our CD “Refresh” in which she sings the part of the wife (sounded great, btw!). Joline was able to turn to her son and say, “That’s me singing”! Jon & Caroline had thought everything through so well in terms of hospitality and charity: dedications for each of the party, 45s on each of the tables with pertinent love songs. And the couple exudes beauty that is more than just surface; look at the picture:
Jon told us a story that was pretty amazing. He had gone to see Eddie Vedder (the same night the Bruins were going for it – that’s dedication.) Vedder played the song Jon & Caroline were using for the First Dance. Apparently, Vedder hadn’t played the song since the FIRST time Jon had seen him! (Jon, correct me if I have the details wrong!) At any rate, cue the Twilight Zone music….isn’t it odd that he should play that song again this week after never doing it for so long?? I don’t know, seems like Providence to me.
And everybody had such fun at the reception. We were so proud of our kids having a GREAT, funny time without anything inappropriate. At the end, Jon officially became a member of the LW ‘family’. The Living Waters ‘puddles’ are turning into new Oceans of God’s powerful Mercy and Grace. Can’t wait for the next wedding!
If anybody else has impressions or anecdotes of this wonderful day, feel free to leave them!
P.S. For the record...or should I say for the compact disc?... the First Dance was "Forever Young" by Bob Dylan. Perfect First Dance for them. Jon just sent me the Youtube for Eddie Vedder's first version of this in Boston in '06.
No comments:
Post a Comment