Distance Vespers Service

On Saturday, November 7 at 7:00 p.m. join us on YouTube as the A&P Choir, ‘cellist Elinor Frey, organist Jonathan Oldengarm and conductor Jean-Sébastien Vallée present an exceptional musical meditation on “Distance”, a theme that is central to our lives in these times. Distance from our loved ones (or sometimes the absence of distance from them!), distance from our careers or hobbies, distance from our favourite travel spots, etc. This Vespers service is filled with music and readings that address the sense of distance that most of us have been experiencing since March. Through the music of J.S. Bach, Rachmaninoff, Barber, and a number of exciting new works we will explore the human experience through scripture. From the traditional Magnificat (the liturgical canticle for Vespers) and Nunc dimittis (the canticle for Compline); to an impassioned appeal to the Cross by the 17th-century cloistered nun Sulpitia Cesis; to the touching “Child’s Prayer” by James MacMillan, this promises to be a memorable reflection on the surreal experience we are living. The musical elements of the service will also be recorded and released on a commercial CD entitled “Distance”, on the ATMA Classique label.

Click here for the Order of Service

With prayers by the Rev. Dr Glenn Chestnutt, and readings by Rabbi Lisa Gruschow, Rev. Maylene Maybee and Bishop Thomas Dowd.