Choir Promotes Spiritual Unity Through Music

By Victoria Morgan

Every Tuesday evening for nearly four years, a group of people has gathered together to sing God’s praises and lend their voices to the healing message of Baha’u’llah, founder of the Baha’i Faith. The group, called Ladder for the Soul, especially enjoys promoting the teachings of Baha’u’llah through music, while performing for a wide variety of spiritual groups and communities.

The choir participates in monthly interfaith services that rotate among churches, synagogues, Muslim, Buddhist and Baha’i Centers around Portland. The interfaith services bring people of faith together to create open communication and understanding among those with diverse religious beliefs.

The choir recently returned from a weekend tour that included a stint as chant leaders for the “24 Hour Chant for Peace” at the Great Vow Zen Buddhist Monastery in Clatskanie, Oregon, followed by a musical performance highlighting many facets of the Baha’i Faith at the Rebekah Hall in Seaside, Oregon.“

The more we sing together, the more we become one voice lifted in spirit,” notes choir member Victoria Morgan, “many times people come up to us after a performance and remark on our unity of spirit. I’m certain this is the result of singing works based upon the Holy Writings of Baha’u’llah.”

In addition to performing concerts that inform people about the Baha’i Faith, the choir sings at Holy Day observances, weddings, memorial services and many other functions where uplifting music is appreciated. “It is such a privilege to use one’s voice for the enjoyment of others,” says Morgan. Choir Director, Steve Hunt agrees. “I think that Baha’u’llah said it best:

"We, verily, have made music as a ladder for your souls, a means whereby they may be lifted up unto the realm on high…"

For more information about future performances by Ladder for the Soul, contact Eric Brenner-Kelley at: ebrennerkelley@gmail.com.