GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Death is a part of life, and as people get close to their last days, comfort is one of the most important things they can hope for. There is an organization that provides such comfort and they are appropriately called Threshold Choir.
Their mission is to sing songs that help relax someone on the threshold between life and death. Their music is specially written to offer comfort for the patient and family members who are trying to let go of a loved one.
Threshold Choir is an international organization that began in California, and they have several groups in Michigan, including Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids. The leader of the Grand Rapids group, Linda Jones, is passionate about being of service for those who need their songs.
"Having that music that is saying you are loved, you are held, you are not alone, may peace be with you, all those words sink in and help their hearts settle down and help them embrace this time with a loving heart rather than a fearful heart," said Jones.
They carefully choose the right songs, depending on the patient’s request and their beliefs.
Marcia Meulenberg’s husband Daniel passed away in April, and Threshold Choir was there at his final hour. She says they helped him leave this world with comfort in his mind and peace in his heart.
"My husband Dan took two deep breaths, and it was like he was ushered from angels singing here on earth to heaven to where angels were singing, and he was home where he so longed to be, " said Muelenberg.
The choir's also offers their services to anyone who just needs comforting, calming choir music, whether it’s someone who is ill, about to give birth, or who has recently lost a loved one.
"I felt like I could let go, and I no longer had to be in control or conscious of my surroundings," said Neill Gage, who suffers from a chronic illness. "And I didn't have to worry or think about it. I could just trust and be."
Threshold Choir offers their singing services for free and they are looking for new members. If you would like to request them or want to join, call 743-680-5351 or go to their website . You can also email them at grthreshold@gmail.com.
