First United Methodist Church of Hot Springs is blessed with four opportunities for adults, youth, and children to ring in a handbell choir.
Our Celebration and Jubilation! adult handbell ringers regularly contribute to worship on Sunday mornings and at other times during the church year, especially during the Holy Week / Easter and Christmas seasons. Both groups have fun each year at handbell festival—a highlight of the year occurring each February. Celebration Bells currently meet at 11:00 a.m. on Mondays; Jubilation! Bells meet at 5:00 pm on Wednesdays.
Beginning Handbells meet every summer (at a time arranged to be convenient for all). This group is for those jr. / sr. high youth and adults interested in learning the simple art of handbell ringing. The music is at an introductory level and geared for learning. Following the summer, Beginning Handbell members are given the option of continuing, by becoming part of the Intermediate Handbell ensemble.
For children, First United Methodist Church provides elementary experience with handbells as part of the children's choir / music ministry. Although children of grades 4th through 6th will occasionally ring in church services, the thrust of this part of our music ministry deals with musical and spiritual development and how handbells can help in worship.
Our church possesses two five-octave sets of Schulmerich bells, a set of Suzuki handchimes, and their own rehearsal room complete with piano for pieces arranged for instrumental accompaniment.
If you are desire to be able to play an instrument, consider learning handbells, as they are an instrument that one can sound good on within just a short period of time. Or, if you are an accomplished handbell ringer, consider the handbell ministry at First United Methodist Church. We have a place for both beginners or seasoned ringers!