Messiah Blog & News

News at Messiah
Font size: +
2 minutes reading time (400 words)

David Teeter Is Retiring

A celebration of his service to the church is planned for October 20  

I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have being. - Psalm 104:33

David Teeter will be retiring from his position as Minister of Worship and Music effective Sunday, October 20, 2019. He has held this full-time position for eighteen years.

In the trajectory of his work career, this was his first and only full-time position as a church musician. A week or two into the job at the age of 48, he said, "God has been preparing me for this my entire life."

Those who participated in his choirs, hand bell groups, ensembles, or orchestras knew him as a consummate churchman and servant-leader. Each week at rehearsals, David shared his rare gift of being able to sing every part of an arrangement—including the soprano lines. Every weekend, David shared another uncommon gift, that is, to be able to play the organ—employing hands, feet, and eyes—and simultaneously sing the words to hymns and songs. All this he did while never letting the music drag. Guests to Messiah would often remark how impressed and amazed they were by the pace and energy with which the congregation sang its praises to God.

David was also instrumental in the selection and installation of Messiah's digital/pipe hybrid organ in 2007. At the same time, he managed the congregation's transition to the use of visual media technologies and the upgrade to multi-channel sound and lighting systems in the sanctuary. During the remodel of Messiah's campus in 2010, David was responsible for designing the wired and wireless networks critical to the work of the staff and accessible to the entire congregation.

The executive committee has begun working with the pastors and personnel team to create a smooth transition for David and his successor(s). Starting immediately, he will be scaling back on some of his typical responsibilities and fall planning. He will continue to serve as the congregation's principal accompanist for weekend worship, memorials, and funerals at the Hazel Dell campus through the end of his tenure. Music groups will have a shortened fall season under David's direction.

Planning has begun for a special event to honor his many accomplishments and lasting legacy at Messiah. Mark your calendar for October 20. Details about the celebration will be coming soon.

×
Stay Informed

When you subscribe to the blog, we will send you an e-mail when there are new updates on the site so you wouldn't miss them.

Pastoral Intern Joel Hinck and family are headed t...
Brunch Potluck to celebrate remodel of the Lower L...