All Saints Anglican Church in Newtown, Trinidad, is planning to demolish its present crumbling and termite ridden bell tower, to replace it with a new state-of-the art tower containing two loud speakers linked to a digital sound system.
The Carillon system allows hymns and other musical sounds to be played either automatically or manually. The secretary of All Saints, Grace Steele, heard such a system in operation at an Episcopal Church Women's Conference in 1997, and put the idea to the choir and rector on her return to the Caribbean island.
The choir at All Saints has recently had the benefit of a microphone and amplifier system, which has helped in leading the congregation's singing. The fund that provided the money for this had enough left for a 50% down payment on a US$4,900 Carillon system.
"Such an installation can only enhance the worship at All Saints," said Grace Steele, "Income derived from its use for weddings, funerals and other services will assist in underwriting the cost. Outright donations from members of the congregation in memory of loved ones, who will be called to mind each time a chime rings, is another method. A plaque with the name of a person so remembered would be installed."
Grace added, "We have a feeling that the sound of hymns pealed before services will inspire and encourage persons within hearing who have possibly lapsed, to renew their attendance at services."
Item from: anglican Outlook