Dr. John Henry Derksen (1945–2024) was minister of music and member at Islington United Church of Canada, Islington, Ontario. He served as professor of church music at Knox College from 1976 until his retirement in 2009, and led the Knox College Choir in regional and national choir tours for many years.
Last Updated: September 11, 2025
It is 9 o’clock on a Sunday morning. About forty teenagers have assembled in the choir rehearsal room at Islington United Church in west Toronto. Most of them look sleepy; many look as though they just stepped out of the shower. But they’re here, and as they warm up their voices and begin to sing, I’m reminded of newborn butterflies drying their wings and getting ready for flight. A parent checks attendance and solves last-minute problems.
Prelude
“Oh, for a Thousand Tongues to Sing,” arr. Martha Lynn Thompson; senior bell choir
Processional Hymn
“Come, O Spirit, Dwell Among Us” VU 198
Greeting
The grace of Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the companionship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
Pentecost Prayer
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