Choral Evensong

Evensong is a tradition in the Episcopal Church that has been done for centuries. It is done each evening in monastic communities and quite often in cathedral settings. Most often, the music is sung to simple chanted tunes. On the higher feast days, however, it is a more elaborate liturgy and sung by the choir while the assembly allows the music of the psalms and prayers and other things to provide moments of reflection. Major elements in the service include a sung “Magnificat” (“My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God.”) as well as the “Song of Simeon” (“Lord, now you let your servant depart in peace”). Along with sung psalmody, a hymn and an anthem are sung prayers for the church, the world and all in need. It is a beautiful liturgy held at twilight to close the day with beautiful music and peaceful repose.

Even though St. Paul’s is neither a monastery nor a cathedral, it recognizes that All Saints falls on a Sunday this year and will mark the day with Evensong presented by the Chancel Choir.