Historically, bells have played an important roll in calling parishioners to worship or prayer. Without modern telecommunication conveniences, bells were important tools in conveying important events. Often large cast bells would toll to remind the faithful of morning or evening prayer, to signal deaths or celebrations such as marriages or baptisms.

 

Since 1990 handbells have been a part of the worship experience at Westminster Presbyterian Church. Handbell choirs enroll in September for the year. Because each ringer is responsible for playing a given number of bells, participating in a ringing ensemble requires a high level of commitment and responsibility. 

 

The choir rings 5 octaves of Malmark handbells and Choir chimes. The bells are often seen in worship not only playing anthems and service music, but also accompanying hymns, and accompanying vocal choirs. Reading music is not a prerequisite for ringing handbells since there is a training and teaching period. However, the Hand Bell Choir is geared to experienced and more advanced ringers.