Meaning: The quote by Bernice Reagon, a musician and civil rights activist, reflects an experience she had at a church where singing out loud in the service was reserved for those who had been "saved." This concept of being "saved" is deeply rooted in Christian theology and refers to the belief that individuals must accept Jesus Christ as their savior in order to attain salvation and eternal life.

The practice of restricting singing in church to only those who have been "saved" can be traced back to certain denominations and traditions within Christianity. In these churches, the act of singing is often viewed as a form of worship and expression of faith. As such, it is believed that only those who have experienced a personal transformation through accepting Jesus Christ as their savior should actively participate in this form of worship.

This belief is rooted in the theological understanding of salvation as a personal and transformative experience. According to Christian doctrine, the process of being "saved" involves a spiritual rebirth and a conscious decision to follow Christ. Those who have undergone this experience are seen as having a deeper understanding of the faith and a more genuine connection to the act of worship, including singing in church.

The restriction on singing until one has been "saved" can have various implications within the church community. For those who have not yet experienced salvation, it may create a sense of exclusion or separation during the worship service. This could potentially impact their sense of belonging and participation in the communal aspect of the church gathering.

On the other hand, for those who have undergone the process of being "saved," the restriction on singing until that point may serve as a meaningful marker of their spiritual journey. It can reinforce the significance of their personal transformation and the depth of their commitment to the Christian faith.

Additionally, the practice of restricting singing until one has been "saved" may also reflect a particular understanding of the purpose and nature of worship within the church. It underscores the idea that worship is not simply a communal activity but also an individual expression of faith and devotion. This emphasis on personal commitment to the faith aligns with certain theological traditions that prioritize the inward spiritual experience of the individual believer.

It is important to note that the practice described in the quote may not be representative of all Christian churches or denominations. The approach to singing in church services varies widely across different traditions, and the significance placed on being "saved" before participating in certain forms of worship is not universal within Christianity.

In conclusion, Bernice Reagon's quote sheds light on a specific experience within a church where the act of singing in the service is reserved for those who have been "saved." This practice reflects certain theological and communal dynamics within specific Christian traditions and serves as a reminder of the diverse beliefs and practices that shape the worship experience in different church settings.