Two Beasts, a Dragon, and a Lamb:
A Journey Through the Book of Revelation
The Book of Revelation often evokes images of fiery destruction, cryptic symbols, and apocalyptic prophecies. Many have approached it with fear and trepidation, focusing on predictions about the end of the world. But is there another way to read it?

This October and November, we will journey through Revelation, exploring it as a powerful political cartoon that speaks directly to the challenges of our time. I had a New Testament professor who, when we came to the book of Revelation, showed us the political cartoon you see here. When we talk of donkeys and elephants fighting, we know that we’re not talking about literal animals fighting—or playing Twister. The same is true with Revelation.

When early Christians heard this book read, they would have heard 666 as an allusion to Emperor Nero. The heard the references to Old Testaments stories—the plagues of Egypt and Daniel’s visions. The author, John, was in tune with his audience.

Just as cartoons use exaggeration and satire to make a point, Revelation employs dramatic language and visions to challenge the status quo. The beasts, dragons, and battles depicted in the book represent the forces of evil and oppression that have plagued humanity throughout history.

Through October and November, we will encounter Revelation in this way: as a first-century political cartoon, a bold critique of the Roman Empire's oppressive power and idolatry. John used vivid imagery and symbolism to expose the injustices and false claims of the empire, calling on Christians to resist its corrupting influence.

In our modern world, we encounter our own "beasts" in the form of political corruption, economic inequality, and systemic injustice. Revelation invites us to consider how we relate to these powerful forces. How do we resist their influence and remain faithful to God's call for justice and compassion?

We will wrestle with these questions, exploring how Revelation's message challenges us to live as disciples of Christ in a world that often seems at odds with God's vision.

While Revelation paints a stark picture of the world's brokenness, it also offers a powerful vision of hope. It reminds us that God's love and justice will ultimately triumph over evil and oppression.

I invite you to join in this journey through the Book of Revelation. Together, we will discover how Revelation's message speaks to the challenges of our time and inspires us to live as faithful witnesses to God's transformative power.

In Christ,
Pastor Jason Dauer

Music strengthens, unites and uplifts our voices in celebration of our shared journey.

Belle Voci is thrilled to host the 13th annual Treble Choir Festival of Western Pennsylvania at First Presbyterian Church of Edgewood (120 East Swissvale Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15218) on Sunday, Oct. 27, at 3 p.m. Admission is $5 at the door. 

Seven choirs in Allegheny County will come together in song. We are proud to feature these esteemed groups: 
Penn Hills High School Cantabile - Briana York, Conductor
Ellis School Glee Club - Gail Novak Mosites, Conductor
Pittsburgh Girls Choir’s Women of Song - Emily Tiberi, Conductor
University of Pittsburgh Treble Choral Ensemble - Lorraine Milovac, Conductor
Riverview High School Grace Notes - Nathan Hart, Conductor
Solo Voci - Rachel Eaton, Conductor
Belle Voci - Lorraine Milovac, Conductor

Each group will take the stage to showcase their choir’s unique sound and collection of music. All groups will join together in singing, “Crowded Table,” by Andrea Ramsey. The messaging in “Crowded Table,” encapsulates the theme of our season: a musical journey through different branches of the human experience - elemental, metaphysical, and facets of everyday life.

The chorus reads, “I want a house with a crowded table / And a place by the fire for everyone / Let us take on the world while we're young and able / And bring us back together when the day is done.”

Music acts as the common thread through life’s journey despite our ages, life experiences and backgrounds. 

Belle Voci Artistic Director Lorraine Milovac began the Treble Choir Festival of Western Pennsylvania in 2007 as the conductor for the University of Pittsburgh Treble Choral Ensemble. The festival serves as a community-outreach initiative to fulfill our mission of “connecting song and community.”

Aria412 presents Thomas the Rhymer
October 18 & 19 - 7:30 PM
Ticketing: https://our.show/thomastherhymer
www.aria412pgh.com
“Thomas the Rhymer” is a captivating new opera adapted from the legendary Scottish ballad. This spellbinding tale weaves a tapestry of desire, temptation, and destiny, exploring modern themes of language and reality, truth and survival. Set to Matthew Gillespie's riveting, accessible music, "Thomas the Rhymer" features an original score that blends traditional medieval music with contemporary orchestration. The powerful performances of our talented cast promise to transport audiences to an otherworldly land of peril. Experience a story that has enthralled audiences for centuries, updated and reimagined for a modern stage. "Thomas the Rhymer" is an unforgettable journey composed, written and performed by Pittsburgh artists – honoring the strong Scottish roots of our region.