Musical offerings for Advent and Christmas
By Jesse Ratcliffe
“It’s the most [hectic!] time of the year…”
The month of December is laden with activity both inside and outside the church, and I hope that you find peace and comfort from the variety of musical and liturgical offerings of this month.
All of the parish ensembles are diligently preparing for Lessons & Carols (Dec. 21 at 5 p.m.). Beloved carols will be paired with lush and energetic choral settings accompanied by organ, piano, handbells, and the Church Band.
The Blue Christmas Service (Dec. 16 at 7 p.m.) will feature quiet and meditative pieces for soloists and congregation.
Our Christmas Eve Pageant (Dec. 24 at 3 p.m.) will be led by the Church Band and piano, and we will hear our newly-formed choir: The Children’s Church Chorus. At 5 p.m., the music is accompanied by organ and a smaller choral ensemble. Our robust Choral Eucharist will begin at 9:45 p.m. with an extended prelude performed by a guest harpist. At 10 p.m., we will sing cherished carols with soaring descants and hear intimate choral anthems as we bask in the candlelit beauty of the space.
I have thoroughly enjoyed spending time with the children of our parish each Sunday morning. During the sermon, I pop into each Children’s Church classroom to spend a few moments teaching our children how to express their faith through song. They’ve been incredibly receptive and I look forward to watching this group grow.
For those of you in the pews that are interested in participating in any capacity in the ensembles at Saint James’, please let me know! There’s always room in the choir for folks with an open heart and willingness to try new things. Music literacy is not a requirement, but it is an asset. Individual coaching lessons can be scheduled to help those interested to learn to read music.
I would be remiss to say that it has been a joy to return to Saint James’ as the director of music and organist. Many warm memories flood my mind each time I sit at the organ. Your support and encouragement are appreciated in ways that cannot be expressed. Thank you.
As always, my inbox and office door are always open for questions.
Advent blessings,
Jesse Ratcliffe
Jesse is the music director and organist. Contact him at music@saintjameswarrenton.org.
