The new music room at Elmer Presbyterian Church was dedicated to Jane Wiley, retired Music Director and organist on Sunday, May 14, 2017 during worship. The room, used for a variety of purposes over the years, was cleaned out, painted, a new floor installed, and music related items scattered throughout the building were all brought to the new Jane Wiley Music Room.
A project inspired by Jane, who long wished for a place to put all her music “stuff,” the challenge was championed by members of the Chancel Choir. As Karen Cerefice, choir member and Clerk of Session, said during the dedication, “We are grateful for the opportunity to honor Jane Wiley for her amazing service to this church. The life of our congregation has been enhanced, deepened, and enriched by the music she shared with us throughout her many years as organist and Music Director. Jane’s musical expertise extended throughout the church, including the worship service, special services, the senior, junior and cherub choirs, Sunday school, vacation Bible school, praise singing, the bell choir, talent shows and anywhere else she was needed. Therefore, we dedicate this music room in Jane Wiley’s name to the glory of God and in grateful remembrance of how Jane has loved and served this church.”
One of Jane’s favorite sayings, “Music is a prayer the heart sings”, is now on a wall in the new music room as continuing inspiration to all who enter. And her favorite Scripture reading from Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight” is inscribed on the Jane Wiley Music Room door plaque. In her retirement, Jane has moved to Albuquerque, NM to be with family, but her musical legacy and love for the Elmer Presbyterian Church continues here.