Easter music at Saint James’ Warrenton

By Jesse Ratcliffe

The Great Vigil of Easter on Saturday, April 4 at 8 p.m. is the most profound liturgy of the year. It unfolds in a tapestry of symbol and song as we journey from the darkness of the tomb into the radiant joy of the Easter proclamation. In the hush of night, we hear the ancient stories — creation spoken into being, the Israelites led through the waters to freedom, and Ezekiel’s vision of dry bones rising to life — woven with paraphrased psalms accompanied by the rich sound of a string quartet.

After these lessons, we renew our baptismal vows with the faithful of ages past. Then, in a moment of holy transformation, darkness gives way to light as the choir and altar party process to an organ meditation on “Victimae Paschali Laudes,” the ancient chant echoing across centuries. At its triumphant climax, we proclaim, “Jesus Christ is risen today. Alleluia!”

Joyful music from choir and strings, including Barber’s “Adagio for Strings,” carries us into the first Holy Eucharist of Easter, as we celebrate the mystery of life restored and hope made new.

Easter Day, April 5 resounds with vibrant and joyful music. At the 8 a.m. service, the organ and a small choral ensemble lead the liturgy as the congregation lifts its voice in the hymn “Jesus Christ Is Risen Today” and other beloved strains of praise. A cheerful setting of “This Joyful Eastertide” rises at the offertory, and at Communion, we are carried by the exquisite “Adagio” from Widor’s Fifth Organ Symphony.

At the 10:15 a.m. service, the celebration unfolds in greater splendor as the liturgy begins with John Cook’s brilliant “Fanfare.” At the offertory, Beethoven’s triumphant “Hallelujah,” first heard at Saint James’ during our 2016 bicentennial, resounds once more in joyful acclaim. During the Eucharist, the choir offers a more tender meditation — an anthem drawn from the Burial Rite (BCP 501) — a quiet echo of the promise that, even in death, we are held in life everlasting.

Jesse Ratcliffe is the organist and director of music at Saint James’ Warrenton. Contact him at music@saintjameswarrenton.org.