David and Andrea Hayes
David Hayes and his wife, Andrea, recently contributed $25,000 to refurbish a pipe organ acquired by the seminary from St. Olaf College. The organ, valued at nearly $100,000, will serve as a much needed practice instrument for students in the seminary's master of sacred music program. The seminary's need for an additional practice organ is the result of an increasing number of students interested in studying organ performance.
Supported by the Called & Sent campaign, Luther Seminary's master of sacred music program is nationally recognized and prepares individuals to serve in the church as professional, theologically educated, pastoral musicians. The program is offered through the seminary's unique partnership with the music department at St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minn.
The Hayeses' gift was made in honor of David's high school organ teacher, Madeline Henshaw, who has had as great an impact on his life as just about any other single individual. "Like Luther Seminary, she taught organ in a religious context. She emphasized playing hymns well – leading a congregation in singing the rich history of hymnody for the glory of God," said David.
David describes Henshaw as a gifted teacher far beyond her circumstances. She lived in small town Amarillo, Texas, and, in addition to teaching organ, served as a church organist. "She was one of those hundreds of unsung teachers who have quietly taught students in excellent ways and influenced their lives without public recognition ... Andrea and I felt that funding the restoration of the seminary's organ not only honors Madeline, but recognizes other quiet, gifted teachers around the country who teach with passion and change lives as a result."
Church music has had a great impact on David's life. A trained musician, David studied organ for 10 years, starting in junior high. In high school, he served as a substitute organist for two years. "Music is a gift from God," he said. "Singing hymns is also a gift from God and can be a religious experience in itself. There is nothing more thrilling for a trained church organist than to lead a congregation of voices in a vigorous hymn of faith or praise."
Whether it is by music or preaching of God's Word, the Hayeses have a strong passion for getting the word out about the gospel. "With all the issues the church faces from time to time that are controversial, and as modern times bring ever new pressures from a secular society into our lives, we sometimes get caught up in the issues of the day and lose sight of the cross," said David. "We must remain focused on getting the good news of Jesus Christ out into the world."
The Hayeses have financially supported Luther Seminary for eight years. David is an intellectual property lawyer at a large firm in northern California's Silicon Valley. Andrea is a business professional who specializes in efficient and effective business operations. They live in Half Moon Bay, Calif., with their Toy Fox Terrier, Limerick.
