Interfaith Panel on the Use of Sound in Faith

Our Christian life—like that of virtually every other faith—is saturated with sound. Bells call us to worship, we sing our praises to God, and are moved by beautiful anthems to the accompaniment of organ, piano, and other instruments. We clap our appreciation, utter aloud prayers and liturgy, and, of course, we listen to sermons, teachers, and the words of others.

All of these sounds have an effect upon who we are, as well as what and how we believe. Scientists study the actual physical effects of differing sound waves on matter, and mystics have long acknowledged the impact of sound, including the sound of silence on the open heart.

Join the Spiritual Life Committee in the Social Hall as we explore the science and spiritual dimensions of sound in our own tradition and that of other faiths.