Dr. Bruce Clark
photo by Earl Freudenberg
First Cumberland Presbyterian Church on Moore Road honored Dr. Bruce Clark Sunday for 50 years of musical service.
A special “Worship Service of Thankfulness” was held during the 11:00 hour that featured musical selections to honor Dr. Clark’s ministry as organmaster.
Dr. Clark said he’s not retiring, just celebrating a milestone in his life. He said he’s served the church under five pastors, played for worship services, weddings, and funerals - all to honor his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Church members and friends gathered for an afternoon celebration concert in the church sanctuary.
Dr. Clark, dressed as Johann Sebastian Bach, went straight to the beautiful Italian pipe organ and opened the concert with “Toccata and Fugue in D minor” by the classical composer.
Dr. Clark played arrangements of several great hymns including “Ivory Palaces,” The Lord is my Light,” and “God of Grace, God of Glory.”
His friend of nearly 50 years, Dr. David Luther, sang one of Dr. Clark’s favorite songs, “I’ll Walk with God.” Dr. Luther was accompanied on the piano by his wife, Dr. Sigrid Luther. Dr. Clark joined the couple on the pipe organ.
Dr. Clark presented special arrangements of “Somewhere My Love,” Stars and Stripes Forever” and snippets from the “Bridal Chorus,” “Trumpet Voluntary,” “Hallelujah Chorus” among others.
Dr. Clark accompanied the congregation as the large crowd sang the popular hymn “All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name.”
A light lunch was served between the morning service and afternoon matinee.
Pastor Dr. Courtney Krueger said, “What a blessing to have you join with us today as we recognize Dr. Bruce Clark for his service to God and this congregation.”
Dr. Clark greeted attendees in the church fellowship hall after the celebration concert.
Dr. Clark is very active in all things musical in Chattanooga, including the American Guild of Organists, and the Chattanooga and McDowell Music Clubs.
Dr. Clark dressed as Bach
photo by Earl Freudenberg