Chicago UBF

"Let everything that has breath praise the Lord; praise the Lord."

(Psalm 150:6)

Praise God who thoroughly blessed the Chicago UBF Orchestra Concert entitled, "Mendelssohn 'Reformation' Symphony in the Park." It was held at Indian Boundary Park Cultural Center, a few blocks from the Chicago UBF Center. The Chicago UBF Orchestra has developed a very good relationship with this cultural Center and which invites many Chicago residents to the concerts. The 120 seat hall was filled to capacity, and according to the Park Directory, an additional 50+ listened to the orchestra from outside the building. Therefore, a total of 170-180 people attended this concert, at least half of which were non-UBF members. We revealed that we perform to praise Jesus and believe Jesus was glorified.

The orchestra had one of its best performances ever. The program included Rimsky-Korsakov's "Procession of the Nobles," Carmen Flute Fantasy played by soloist Josephine Lee (daughter of Missionaries Young and Curie Lee), Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest, and Mendelssohn's Symphony No. 5, the "Reformation Symphony." We also recognized four members who have served the orchestra faithfully throughout their high school and college careers--Josephine Lee, Rebecca Pierce, Grace Yoshiba and Dr. Josephine Kim. Each sacrificed time ever Thursday, Saturday and Sunday to prepare music to serve Jesus. We are greatly indebted to them for their sacrifice and gave them a plaque to show our appreciation.

The main piece was Mendelssohn's "Reformation" Symphony. It was written to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the Augsburg Confession, Luther's profession of faith that defined the beliefs of the reformation. Mendelssohn wrote the symphony to describe in music to describe his view of the struggles, joys and victories of Christian life. It ends with a glorious choral of the hymn, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God."

The orchestra thanks God for the unconditional support of Pastor Ron Ward. Without his support this would not have been possible. We also thank God for the support and prayers from Dr. John Jun and Mother Sarah Barry. I also thank God for the support of Dr. Helen Rarick my wife. We pray that God revealed his glory and moved some to see the glory of God. We thank God we could praise him through this concert.