Hymn Festivals

Hymn festivals, popularized by the great Paul Manz, allow the congregation to sing heartily the great hymns of Christendom. These energetic events, sometimes arranged thematically, inspire people not only to sing, but to appreciate the musical tradition of the Lutheran Church. They likewise provide an opportunity for the church’s choir and other musicians to be involved in a significant service, performed to the glory of God. A few of the hymn festivals Benjamin Kolodziej has led include:

  • Grace Lutheran Church, Naples, FL

  • St. Paul Lutheran Church, Austin, TX

  • St. Paul Lutheran Church, Cullman, AL

  • Lord of Life Lutheran Church, Plano, TX

  • Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, Portland, OR (for ALCM)

  • Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, Desoto, TX

Hymnal Marathons

Benjamin Kolodziej has performed several “hymnal marathons” in which he plays through an entire hymnal in a day, for livestreaming and for people to come and go as they please. Such a feat highlights the treasures of the hymnal and is fun for the whole family. He has performed through Lutheran Service Book and the Episcopal Hymnal 1982. Both take about 11 hours. Below are the videos from the hymnal marathon at Trinity Lutheran Church, Houston, TX, from 2022.