Ben Johnston-Urey is proud to serve as a cheerful “encourager in Christ” for the lay-led congregation of Trinity Lutheran Church. With a deep commitment to the teachings of Jess and a belief in the boundless love of God, Ben draws from his roles as composer, performer, and ecumenical leader to inspire others to live into their faith.

Ben & Caitlin Johnston-Urey & family with Bishop Larry at the Alberta & Territories Synod Convention - June 2024

About the Liturgy...

In 2023, in preparation for the conclusion of the call to serve as Synod Bishop in the Synod of Alberta and the Territories - Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada, Bishop Larry and Cathy Kochendorfer commissioned the creation of the Liturgy of the Beloved as a gift to their beloved Synod.  Although the liturgy follows the four-fold pattern of worship and the traditional liturgical elements, there was a desire to create a liturgy for congregations and ministries in a language fresh and evocative in its imagery and expression of grace, while musically welcoming and accessible in its melodies and rhythms.   

As Bishop Larry shared several times in correspondence to the Synod: 
"Beloved of God, as people of faith, continue to be humble and gentle with one another. Honour each other.  Make space for the lament that always accompanies change.  Welcome moments of joy.  Help each other to live into hope.  
Trust that God is with us in this time and look for the new things God is doing even now."

May the Liturgy of the Beloved be an instrument so that "joined together in harmony and having received the godly melody in unison, you might sing in one voice through Jesus Christ."  (Ephesians IV, Ignatius of Antioch, c. 35-c. 107 A.D.)

In love we were made, in love we live, and to love we shall return.

“The God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13)

Listen HERE for more songs from Liturgy of the Beloved on Johnston-Urey Music website.

Bishop Trish Schmermund joined TLC during Advent 2024 and blessed our services with Holy Communion, singing Liturgy of the Beloved with the Meal.

On October 6, 2024 Lochlan Heaton led our congregation in singing Hope Everlasting, from Liturgy of the Beloved, accompanied by his father, Jon (not shown) and Doug Petriw.