Both singers and people who love to listen to music are invited to attend open mic night at Honey Brook Presbyterian Church. The event is held on the third Monday of the month from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., and the next installment will take place on May 20.

The first session of the new program was held at the church on April 15. The first event included 20 attendees; seven of them were singers, many of whom perform at other open mic nights in the area.

Even though open mic is being held at a church, attendees do not have to perform Christian music. The only requirement is that songs contain appropriate language.

"Some played Christian music or original songs that they have written," reported church member Lynn Klumpp, noting that a variety of music was featured during the first open mic. "We heard 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald' by Gordon Lightfoot and (songs by) Simon and Garfunkel and James Taylor."

Those who would like to perform are asked to sign up at 6:30 p.m. "There is a sign-up sheet, and we go down the list," Klumpp said. "They can play two or three songs, and if there is time at the end of the night, they can play (additional songs), or some can get together (and sing) as a group."

A sound system with microphones is provided by the church, but singers should bring their own instruments, including guitars and keyboards. "We do have several microphones because sometimes two or three people play or someone might play and others can come up and sing along," Klumpp noted. "That's what is fun about open mic; you can play by yourself or with people."

Light refreshments, including coffee, water and snacks, are provided. Admission is free, but donations are accepted.

"People love to sing. If you sing in a bar (or restaurant), you feel obligated to buy something. (At the church), you don't have to pay, or you can bring your own water," explained Klumpp. "It's more casual."

Klumpp said that in order to publicize the first gathering, she distributed information about the church event at other local open mic venues, noting similar events are held at Lione's Pizza & Restaurant in Downingtown and the Stottsville Inn in Coatesville.

The idea to host an open mic came from Gina Miller, a local country music artist, who received help in organizing the event from church member Dave Mantz. "I am a performer and play a lot of open mics," noted Mantz, citing the recent popularity of open mic events at bars and restaurants. "There is quite a music scene in the local area. (Recently, these venues) started being receptive to people playing music. We are not professional entertainment, but it draws a crowd."

He said that open mic night is an outreach of the church, meant to draw community members in to enjoy an evening of music. "We needed something to show the community that we are still here. We don't want to evangelize or preach," said Mantz. "Just come out and have fun with us. It's a no-pressure deal. You can sit down, have a cup of coffee and have a nice evening. It's a living room type of atmosphere."

Honey Brook Presbyterian Church is located at 4331 Horseshoe Pike (Route 322), Honey Brook. Those who attend open mic night are asked to use the back entrance of the church. For more information, call the church at 610273-2848 or search for "Honey Brook Presbyterian Church" on Facebook.