Infusing Life into Your Worship Music

SATURDAY SHARING

INFUSING LIFE INTO YOUR WORSHIP MUSIC

A Conversation with Amanda Udis-Kessler and the Rev. Dr. Peter Stickney

Church musicians work hard to create excellent worship music in praise of God and in commitment to human well-being, but how can we make sure our music is life-giving as well as high-quality? Pastor, musician, and UCCMA chaplain Peter Stickney chats with pastor, musician, and UCCMA Director of DEI and Member Education Amanda Udis-Kessler about how they approach worship music in their dual roles as pastors and church musicians. Peter and Amanda are both committed to worship music being uplifting, restorative, humanizing, invigorating, and a powerful part of the overall worship service while also being accessible to all in attendance. Join us for a conversation about life-giving worship music that will also include plenty of time for sharing of ideas and resources among the gathered community.

Dr. Amanda Udis-Kessler is a published and award-winning hymnwriter and sacred music composer who serves as Director of DEI and Member Education on the UCC Musicians Association Board of Directors. Amanda is the Transitional Pastor at Vista Grande Community Church UCC in Colorado Springs, Colorado (as well as the church musician). A sociologist and anti-racism trainer, she is the author of three books and a contributor to another 13 books. Amanda also consults on inclusive liturgy practices. Find her free-use worship music at queersacredmusic.com and on her YouTube channel (youtube.com/@amandaudiskessler). Contact her at amanda@amandaudiskessler.com.

Rev. Dr. Peter Stickney serves as pastor of the Newfield Community Church, Newfield, Maine and is deeply involved in community ministry. He is chaplain for the United Church of Christ Musicians Association and served as editor of its journal “Worship, Music and Ministry” for seven years.  Peter was part of the development team for Then Let Us Sing, a new ecumenical musical hymnbook launched by The United Church of Canada.  Known for encouraging a diverse and inclusive spiritual community, he often promotes worship services that blend traditional music with contemporary messages.

Saturday Sharing is an occasional free, one-hour conversation on ZOOM. All are welcome. Saturday, September, 2026 at 12 Noon ET / 9 AM PT

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