When I think of how He brought me through
and how, how the Lord changed my life;
my soul, my soul is overwhelmed.
I’ve got joy, joy, joy, unspeakable joy.
-Unspeakable Joy lyrics by Douglas Miller
For eight years GLIDE’s Music Director, Vernon Bush, has embodied unspeakable joy. His infectious smile, open heart and his dedication to Beloved Community has made him a vibrant part of GLIDE.
Sunday, August 4th, Glide Memorial Church encircled Vernon Bush’s and blessed his final Sunday at GLIDE. Those gathered shouted “yes he did” as Minister Marvin K. White read Vernon’s accolades before the congregation.
“Vernon my brother, my friend, my compatriot,” Minister Marvin declared, “for all the ways you have led us in spirit and for all the unspeakable joy you have brought into our lives, we give thanks for your ministry, for your movement and for your life.”
Dr. Gina Fromer, GLIDE’s President and CEO, began her tribute to Vernon with a song. “I’m going to miss that smile!” Dr. Gina declared, “On behalf of the board of trustees, the GLIDE board, the staff, we want to say that we love you and we are going to miss you.”
Other members of the GLIDE community also shared their memories and well wishes for Vernon, including former members of GLIDE’s teen choir, who surprised Vernon with a visit. The GLIDE Ensemble said goodbye by singing the songs that Vernon led. To maximize the songs performed on his final Sunday, the Ensemble sang different songs at the 9 and 11 am Celebrations, including: Unspeakable Joy, Standing in the Need of Prayer, Bless Me and Glory.
In addition to providing the soundtrack for Glide Memorial Church’s Sunday Celebrations, the volunteer Ensemble also performs at events throughout San Francisco. One of Vernon’s most iconic performances with the Ensemble took place at the 2009 Celebration for Cecil’s 45th Year at GLIDE. Two days later, Vernon joined the GLIDE Ensemble on the Conan O’Brian Show. The Ensemble also recently performed at the Celebration of Life for Willie Mays.
From its humble beginnings on Christmas Day, 1966, when it was only 10 singers and jazz legend John Handy, the Glide Ensemble grew to include more than 100 voices and eight musicians.
Beginning with the first choir director, Faith Winthrop, the Glide Ensemble has benefitted from the direction of such talented leaders as Donnell Hickman, Ronald Sutherland, John F. Turk, Jr., Clifford Coulter, and Vernon Bush, and has teamed up with a host of notable musicians such as Sammy Davis Jr., Leonard Bernstein, Marvin Gaye, Bono, and Maya Angelou.
During Vernon’s tenure at GLIDE, the ensemble performed with Joan Baez, Michael Franti, Bobby McFerrin, Martin Luther McCoy and many other celebrities. Under his leadership, the Ensemble has provided the soundtrack from some of San Francisco’s most iconic events, including Juneteenth Celebrations at City Hall. Vernon also helped GLIDE navigate through tragedy and grief, during the COVID epidemic and the recent death of the Rev. Cecil Williams.
Performing at fundraisers, programs and community events, Vernon’s effervescent energy touched every part of GLIDE’s work. Participants of the Center For Social Justice’s Alabama Pilgrimages often celebrate Vernon’s compassionate witness and musical support.
Vernon departs GLIDE to pursue his personal musical goals. On Sunday he sang from his forthcoming album that celebrates his mother.
“The joy that I have tried to live out, and be as an example,” remarked Vernon, “I really want you all to carry on.” Thank you, Vernon, for all the ways that you have touched the lives of GLIDE staff, participants and church members. We send you off with joy, joy, joy, unspeakable joy.