Like other Sacred Harp singers, DeLong feels strongly drawn to the music and the tradition. The most powerful pull is the spirituality of the singing. DeLong's feelings are shared Sacred Harp singers across the country. To see a church filled with people singing in four part harmony with energetic roof raising volume is a powerful experience, which for many singers transcends into worship. I get more from singing than I do from preaching.
Singers also become part of a large and growing community.
Whether through staying in each other's homes while attending singings, traveling together across the country to sing, or even using the Internet, singers develop lasting friendships. They share each others struggles and losses. The sick are remembered as well. The constant addition of new converts to this beloved tradition, does not diminish the pain when singing friends die. More people come in to fill the spots, but we never replace anyone.