They do not know.
It lives on—in my soul;
And I stay nearer God
Because of it.”
—Bessie C. Hicks in “The Church School.”
Congregational singing, as we know it, we really owe to Luther and to Calvin. —Dr. Arthur John Gossip.
They Sang with the Marine Band
The community Christmas Tree at Washington in 1946 afforded a pleasant occasion when it was illuminated. The scene was outlined for, probably, millions of listeners in all parts of the country. The nation was enjoying an unusually happy season, for though World War II had ended more than a year before, many of the nation’s sons and daughters who had taken a part in the terrific struggle had only recently returned to their homes. Wartime restrictions had made a tree impossible for a few years; and so this lighting of the tree at the capital was an enjoyable feature, and Washington, apparently, made the most of it. The evening was fair. The crowds were in attendance, and President Truman delivered an address.
The United States Marine Band played, of course, and the school children, in festive mood, sang, as well as others. The tree was ablaze with lights.
The ceremonies were announced to close with the playing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by the band, and the musicians began to play. Soon there came over the radio the humming of many voices, then the people began to sing as the band played. Gradually the volume of voices increased. And before the music ceased it sounded as though a mighty chorus expressed their pent-up feelings in the happy strains: