November 20, 6:45 – 8:15 pm
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 6:45–8:15 pm, in person in Bloedel Hall or online via Zoom. Optional community dinner at 6 pm.
Facilitated by: Steve Thomason, Michael Kleinschmidt, and Jason Anderson
The “O” Antiphons service at Saint Mark’s is a signature liturgy that draws us into the orbit of Advent preparation and hope, connecting ancient themes and imagery that engages all the senses. The cadenced rhythms of chant, prayer, hymnody, and prophetic scriptures are held together by carefully choreographed movements that invite us into the realm of the numinous. This year’s service—December 1, 2024, at 7:00 pm—will include the premiere a newly-commissioned anthem, In the Stillness by Black composer Brittney Boykin.
In this Cathedral Commons forum, Dean Thomason, Canon Kleinschmidt, and Dr. Anderson will explore with participants the theological underpinnings of the “O” Antiphons tradition at Saint Mark’s, the centuries-old liturgies that it taps into, and the origins and history of this special service. We will also discuss ways we continue to adapt and evolve the liturgical expression of “O” Antiphons, seeking to amplify the voices of women prophets while also revising language of familiar hymns to foster sensitivity to Jewish traditions. Those present will have opportunity to sing a revised verse of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” and also try their hand at revisions to other verses of that quintessential Advent hymn.
All are welcome. Join online using this Zoom link.
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqf-ytqzgqE9P0U0UkPVTDwIKZ8ZbkoKvC
