The National Pastoral Musicians (NPM) Western Regional Convention opened Aug. 5 at the Wilshire Grand Hotel in Los Angeles.

More than 500 pastoral musicians and liturgists from across the U.S. gathered for the opening prayer event (pictured), with local guitarists Mary Janus and Daniel Delgado (pictured) helping to provide accompaniment. Activities during the convention (which ends Aug. 8) will highlight the diversity of styles and cultures present in today's church.

A more detailed report will be presented in the Aug. 15 issue of The Tidings.