By means of Introduction...
So, it has been achieved! Following the decision taken in 1989, during a meeting of members, to replace the Koppejan organ in the Noorderkerk, now, in December 2004, a completely new organ has been built.
Professor Harald Vogel, our organ advisor since 2001, has made an important contribution to the project. He provided the organ committee with advice, and accompanied the organbuilder. We are very grateful to him for his commitment and involvement. Professor Vogel has also written a very worthwhile and recommendable article about organ building, organs, and congregational singing. This allows you the opportunity to learn about his vision of congregational singing, and the accompanying use of the organ, a vision which coincides so well with our own practices.
The organbuilder Henk van Eeken had, from our initial contact onwards, an excellent feel for the problems and requirements of the congregation in Rijssen. As far as we are concerned, he has succeeded in providing a wholly appropriate solution. In addition to what he has written about the situation, we can also now enjoy listening to the fruits of his labours. His chosen route was anything but simple, but the result is entirely convincing. The craftsmanship, commitment and involvement of Henk van Eeken and his colleagues have passed the test, and we are very grateful.
It is the dearest wish of the church council that the new organ be used for many years for the Glory of God. Moreover, it is He who makes all things possible, and gives each believer all they can want. We offer ourselves in humility knowing that all things are of God.
The words of former minister G.H. Kersten, published in 1937 in ‘De Saambinder’ are, and remain, so true: '... The service of the Word and of the sacraments must remain the only reason why one goes to church, and to which everything else is subservient. Together we go forward in love. Listen to the sermon more than to the organ.'
December 10, 2004
The church council.