As we head into Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and Easter, the musical life of the church is at its peak. Palm Sunday begins with a processional reminding us of Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, after which the choir sings “Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates.” But by the end of the service, we will have descended far into the Holy Week story, singing Agnus Dei (“Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world…”), accompanied by cello. The service ends with a haunting rendition of “Were You There?” The choir sings again on Maundy Thursday, continuing this Lent’s custom of singing versions of “We adore you, O Christ” (Adoramus te, Christe). Good Friday’s midday outdoor service will be graced by the singing of choral scholar Yasmeen Lookman. And the 10:00 Easter service culminates with our annual tradition of the choir and congregation singing “Hallelujah” from Handel’s Messiah.

     After providing so much music for this holy season, the choir gets a well-deserved rest the week after Easter. And as we head into April and Eastertide, the music will illuminate the readings of Jesus’ ministry after the resurrection. A full and busy time of year!

Director of Music

Brad Ellingboe

​