Photos by Lyn. To enlarge please left click on the images.
The choir does not normally sing at weddings, but we do make exceptions for the close family of one of our own whenever possible.
After the date had been set about eighteen months ago, the long wait finally ended on Saturday 3rd August, when we were pleased to sing at the wedding of Bethan Thomas to Gareth Knight. Bethan is the daughter of long standing bass chorister Gareth Thomas. The morning’s heavy downpours relented to present us with a glorious sunny August afternoon and after exercising the Bride’s prerogative to be late, Bethan’s entrance was accompanied by our own Stephen Berry playing ‘The Giving‘ and Gareth the father, was happy to give away his daughter to another Gareth, this time a Knight.
Preceding the marriage, a reading of ‘Footprints in the Sand’ was given by Amy Owen and 1 Corinthians 13 v4-13 was read by Davina Thomas.
Following the Marriage ceremony and Blessing, conducted by Reverend Linda Crebbin, the Choir, elevated to the high balcony position of the Ebenezer Baptist Chapel in Magor, sang The Lord’s Prayer’ to the beautiful Malotte composition, accompanied by Stephen and conducted by Musical Director Siân Hatton. Hymns sung during the service were ‘How Great Thou Art‘, and ‘The Power of your Love‘ to which the choir added volume to the Congregational singing. ‘Secrets of a Good Marriage’ were advised by a reading from Claire Evans. Were you taking note, lads?
Finally, at the signing of the Register, the choir entertained the wedding guests to harmonious melodic renderings of favourites Yfory, He and You Raise Me Up, three items selected by the newly married couple.
The happy, smiling couple emerged from the Registry and finally into the sunlight to an applauding congregation and the playing of ‘Everything’ by Stephen Berry.
The choir would like to take the opportunity to wish Bethan and Gareth a long and happy life together.
The day was tinged with sadness in that, as reported earlier, Gareth’s father and Bethan’s grandfather, ex-chorister and vice -president Frank, passed away at his home on Tuesday 30th July. Nevertheless, we are sure he would have been proud of you all.