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Old Fashioned Hymn Sing on Palm Sunday at the Syracuse Community Center in Syracuse, Indiana

Old Fashioned Hymn Sing 2026

Old Fashioned Hymn Sing Returns on Palm Sunday at Syracuse Community Center

A Larger Venue for a Growing Community Tradition

Due to an overflowing crowd at our first-ever Old-Fashioned Hymn Sing in the quaint, historic Oakwood Chapel, Chautauqua-Wawasee is relocating this popular community event to a larger venue. The Old Fashioned Hymn Sing will now be held at the Syracuse Community Center, 1013 N. Long Drive, Syracuse, allowing more people to attend and enjoy more convenient parking.

Continuing a Beloved Hymn Sing Tradition

Many churches once held a Hymn Sing as a Sunday evening service, bringing communities together through music and worship. Chautauqua-Wawasee’s Old Fashioned Hymn Sing continues this tradition on Palm Sunday evening, March 29, from 5–6 p.m.

Led by Dr. Larry Allen

Dr. Larry Allen will lead the singing of some of Christianity’s most beloved hymns, including “Holy, Holy, Holy” and “Amazing Grace.”

A Free Community Event Open to All

This free community program encourages attendees to arrive early to secure good seating and begin identifying favorite hymns to sing. Everyone is invited to join this community hymn sing as voices are lifted together in praise to the Lord.

A Time of Comfort, Reflection, and Song

Many favorite hymns carry deep meaning, recalling a simpler time and offering comfort to the soul. If you are longing to sing and hear those beloved songs, don’t miss the opportunity to attend Chautauqua-Wawasee’s Old Fashioned Hymn Sing in Syracuse, Indiana.

When

Palm Sunday, March 29
5:00–6:00 p.m.

Where

Syracuse Community Center
1013 N Long Dr
Syracuse, IN 46567

Learn More About Chautauqua-Wawasee

To learn more about Chautauqua-Wawasee community programs, many of which are suitable for the entire family, visit our “About Chautauqua” page. For questions, please call (574) 377-7543.

🕊️ First Chautauqua Old Fashioned Hymn Sing Draws a Crowd

Palm Sunday evening was the perfect setting for a heartfelt gathering, as more than 50 people attended Chautauqua-Wawasee’s first Old Fashioned Hymn Sing held at the historic chapel at Oakwood Resort.

Mary Moretto, who organized the event, reflected on its success:

“We had no idea how many people might attend, and didn’t know whether the chapel was the right size—maybe it’s too big or too small. For this year, it was the perfect size. Next year, we’ll need a larger venue.”

First ever Chautauqua-Wawasee Old Fashioned Hymn sing was a huge hit!

Led by Elaine Pearson, participants were invited to call out their favorite hymns by name or page number. Pianist Jamie Culbertson beautifully responded to the spontaneous requests, while Dane Penrod of Oakwood led the male voices in song.

Dane shared his experience:

“There was something truly beautiful — and deeply moving — about lifting our voices together in song to praise our Heavenly Father. In a world that often feels so busy and loud, tonight felt like a gentle pause… a return to simple joy and shared faith.”

Attendees echoed the sentiment with enthusiasm and warmth. Some said, “We should get together weekly or monthly,” while another commented, “One hour wasn’t enough!” One joyful attendee even joked, “I think we’re ready to go on tour.”

As the event came to a close, it was clear that something special had taken place.

Audience at the Old Fashioned Hymn Sing

Mary Moretto added:

“We received so many favorable comments and encouragement. It really meets a community need.”

Plans are already underway to bring this meaningful evening of music and worship back next year… Possibly sooner!