Clinquant

“Clinquant” is an obsolete French word which means to clink or tinkle, or glittering with gold. Clinquant is also the name of the bell choir in which I am a novice ringer.

For the past 17 years this group has been practicing under the capable, patient training of our director, Jon. This past month we have been getting ready for “Music Sunday,” and our last Sunday with Jon. He is retiring.

We pick up our golden bells with gloved hands and begin our rehearsal. “OK, guys we’ll go thru this once slowly and see how it goes,” says Jon. “Wait a minute, I can’t find my bell glasses.” “Which bells am I playing?” ”My bell is broken.” “We need new gloves.” We have an endless repertoire of excuses for our ill preparedness. Jon is patient, but it’s time to get this piece right. “Bells up. One and two and ready, begin.” We try. We try again. We are improving, but not yet good enough. ‘You guys have to count. Subdivide. Lets clap the rhythm. You have to do something about that page turn.” We try again. Still not right. We practice some more.

Sunday morning comes. Jon steps up to lead us. One, two, ready, begin. A glorious sound fills the sanctuary. Jon smiles. God is glorified. Hallelujah!