Requesting A Dedication - For Nevo’s Lifetime of Dedication
In light of the memorable Chapel Choir 50th reunion celebration hosted by First United Methodist Church of Downers Grove this past June, an entire generation of alumni is driven to honor the living legacy of John Neve (a/k/a "Nevo"). Instead of waiting until he passes, we aim to pay tribute now, recognizing his profound impact on our church during his 15 years of dedicated service. We also seek to acknowledge the enduring traditions that continue to resonate with a new generation even 50 years later. Our proposal is to dedicate the current Fellowship Hall as "The John A. Neve Fellowship Hall."
John Neve, the first full-time minister of music hired by FUMC of Downers Grove, transcended the role of a mere choir director; he was a worship leader and a lay person who was revered as a minister. His influence set the standard for our music programs, evident in the Chapel Choir tours, the inception of handbell choirs, and the creation of children's musicals. In 1978, his consecration as a Diaconal Minister underscored his commitment to serving the church both musically and spiritually.
Undoubtedly, John Neve touched the lives of countless high school youth who sang in the Chapel Choir during the 1970s and 1980s, but his impact extended to their families, fostering enduring memories and strengthening church membership. FUMC, under John Neve's leadership, became a cornerstone in the Northern Illinois United Methodist Conference, as he built bridges and nurtured relationships.
Our aspiration is to carry forward the legacy of the Chapel Choir, ensuring that future generations will ask, "Who was John Neve?" We also wish for them to appreciate the talented directors who succeeded him and to delve into the rich history of our church's music programs. To materialize this vision, we propose attaching a plaque to the outer wall of Fellowship Hall with the inscription:
Fellowship Hall
Dedicated to the enduring music ministry of
John A. Neve
Updates
February 24, 2024
The emails I receive from former students are heavy with memories of what John built for us. It is exhausting to keep chasing a formal response from the church leadership but the stories keep me moving forward.
Reached 100 supporters
February 24, 2024
45 Comments
John was an inspiring and energetic musician who made church music come alive to all who participated in the program. Most interesting of all was the fact that he made it fun for all ages!
Through music ministry John Neve (along with his wife Jane) led people to Christ, changed lives for the better, gave people purpose and, in more than a few cases, influenced young adults to choose careers in ministry and/or music. John's pisitive influence in the Church has continued for more than 50 years.
Not only is Nevo deserving of such an honor, it is long overdue! He had such a profound effect on so many youth and young adults, myself included. I still remember how sad I was whe he announced he was leaving my freshman year. Tour choir that year was very emotional, especially the last night that we all spent together overnight. Nevo's legacy continues to this day and will continue for years to come.
Mr. Neve was a great teacher and light for young people. He gave me private singing lessons and never made me feelbad for not knowing something. His love for all was evident in everything he did. So glad to honor him.
I went on tour in 1973,1974 and 1975. I graduated in 1975. Such joyful ,meaningful times!
Thank you for the Spirit leading John in his work starting up the Chapel Choir and his other endeavors.
We agree wholeheartedly with your efforts to honor an outstanding individual for outstanding achievements and service. We also believe that this would be a true expression of Christain love. Something that is sorely needed in our world to day.
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Requesting A Dedication - For Nevo’s Lifetime of Dedication
In light of the memorable Chapel Choir 50th reunion celebration hosted by First United Methodist Church of Downers Grove this past June, an entire generation of alumni is driven to honor the living legacy of John Neve (a/k/a "Nevo"). Instead of waiting until he passes, we aim to pay tribute now, recognizing his profound impact on our church during his 15 years of dedicated service. We also seek to acknowledge the enduring traditions that continue to resonate with a new generation even 50 years later. Our proposal is to dedicate the current Fellowship Hall as "The John A. Neve Fellowship Hall."
John Neve, the first full-time minister of music hired by FUMC of Downers Grove, transcended the role of a mere choir director; he was a worship leader and a lay person who was revered as a minister. His influence set the standard for our music programs, evident in the Chapel Choir tours, the inception of handbell choirs, and the creation of children's musicals. In 1978, his consecration as a Diaconal Minister underscored his commitment to serving the church both musically and spiritually.
Undoubtedly, John Neve touched the lives of countless high school youth who sang in the Chapel Choir during the 1970s and 1980s, but his impact extended to their families, fostering enduring memories and strengthening church membership. FUMC, under John Neve's leadership, became a cornerstone in the Northern Illinois United Methodist Conference, as he built bridges and nurtured relationships.
Our aspiration is to carry forward the legacy of the Chapel Choir, ensuring that future generations will ask, "Who was John Neve?" We also wish for them to appreciate the talented directors who succeeded him and to delve into the rich history of our church's music programs. To materialize this vision, we propose attaching a plaque to the outer wall of Fellowship Hall with the inscription:
Fellowship Hall
Dedicated to the enduring music ministry of
John A. Neve
Updates
February 24, 2024
The emails I receive from former students are heavy with memories of what John built for us. It is exhausting to keep chasing a formal response from the church leadership but the stories keep me moving forward.
Reached 100 supporters
February 24, 2024
45 Comments
John (Mr. Neve) and The Chapel Choir made a difference during a rough time in high school. I am forever grateful for the confidence I gained through singing in church and on tour under John Neve's direction! Thank you for your Gift of Music, I am still singing and sharing music where I can! ❤️
John was an inspiring and energetic musician who made church music come alive to all who participated in the program. Most interesting of all was the fact that he made it fun for all ages!
Through music ministry John Neve (along with his wife Jane) led people to Christ, changed lives for the better, gave people purpose and, in more than a few cases, influenced young adults to choose careers in ministry and/or music. John's pisitive influence in the Church has continued for more than 50 years.
Not only is Nevo deserving of such an honor, it is long overdue! He had such a profound effect on so many youth and young adults, myself included. I still remember how sad I was whe he announced he was leaving my freshman year. Tour choir that year was very emotional, especially the last night that we all spent together overnight. Nevo's legacy continues to this day and will continue for years to come.
Mr. Neve was a great teacher and light for young people. He gave me private singing lessons and never made me feelbad for not knowing something. His love for all was evident in everything he did. So glad to honor him.
I went on tour in 1973,1974 and 1975. I graduated in 1975. Such joyful ,meaningful times!
Thank you for the Spirit leading John in his work starting up the Chapel Choir and his other endeavors.
We agree wholeheartedly with your efforts to honor an outstanding individual for outstanding achievements and service. We also believe that this would be a true expression of Christain love. Something that is sorely needed in our world to day.
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John (Mr. Neve) and The Chapel Choir made a difference during a rough time in high school. I am forever grateful for the confidence I gained through singing in church and on tour under John Neve's direction! Thank you for your Gift of Music, I am still singing and sharing music where I can! ❤️