Our beloved Jan Modica is retiring after more than 30 years of dedicated service leading the Cherub’s children music ministry (Pre-K through 2nd grade) at First Lutheran Church. Her passion, faith and commitment to nurturing our youngest members through music have left a profound and lasting impact on our community.
Jan’s connection to music and faith has been lifelong. “I have been singing with the youth of First Lutheran since 1983 when I started teaching Sunday School music,” she shared.
For Jan, music is more than notes or lyrics; it’s a way to bring Bible verses to life and connect with faith. “When I hear or read a Bible verse, a song often comes to mind. I hope I’ve passed that connection to the children I’ve worked with – helping them engage in worship and supporting their faith journeys. My hope is that the songs they’ve learned provide comfort and strength, guiding them when they need it most.”
Over the years, Jan has built countless cherished memories. From little ones singing with joy (like one memorable girl dubbed “A Cherub and Her Backup Singers”) to guiding shy children to find their voices or seeing former “Cherubs” perform in high school and college choirs, her heart has been full watching these young souls grow.
One memory that always makes Jan smile is about a cherub choir boy from her first year. “He could be a little naughty,” Jan recalls. Years later, she saw him singing in his college choir. When Jan completed her degree, she spoke at the baccalaureate service. Sitting in the front row, graduating Summa cum Laude, was that same young man. “It felt like a full-circle moment. Moments like that remind me why this work matters.”
Jan’s favorite songs to teach carried deep messages of trust and joy. She especially loved singing “Trusting You,” a song that became a source of strength for her during challenging times. One of her favorites, as well as the children’s, was the lively tune “Apple Red Happiness.” This cheerful song brought joy and energy to every choir practice. (Check out the video in this post to hear our Cherubs singing this beloved classic back in 2018!)
To Jan, children’s music ministry has always been a vital part of worship. “I’ve had so much feedback that the children’s song was as important and meaningful as the sermon,” she shared. “It can become a life memory for them. Music is such an important part of our faith journeys.”
Jan goes on to share, “Music is vital in public schools, but budget cuts often threaten these programs. Church music programs offer children a chance to enjoy music and its benefits. They build skills, promote leadership, strengthen faith and encourage growth – often at a lower cost than other activities.”
Many churches have stopped choirs and youth music programs, but Jan hopes this won’t happen at First Lutheran. “We used to sing songs of faith in schools and at community events. These songs became a source of comfort and strength throughout life. Today, this tradition is fading – children no longer learn Christmas carols or other faith-based songs in schools or public events. If we don’t preserve these songs in our church, they could be lost forever. We must ensure this rich tradition continues for future generations.”
Reflecting on her decades of service, Jan described her role as both a privilege and an honor. “Our building and lives have changed so much over the past 30 years, but I’ve been truly blessed to be part of this ministry.”
“If you teach a child to sing, you’ve fed them for a lifetime.” And Jan, you’ve truly fed us all. Thank you for your leadership, passion and love. You’ve made an unforgettable impact on our community and 30 years of children!
Join us this Sunday, May 11, as we celebrate Jan during our Mother’s Day Brunch. A special cake reception will be held in the Activity Center from 9:15 to 10:30 AM. Come and share your favorite memories (and songs!) of Cherub Choir with Jan!
