Hillsdale College Holds First Choral Evensong Service of the Year
HILLSDALE, Mich. — The Hillsdale College Chapel Choir performed during the first Choral Evensong Service of the year on Jan. 29 in Christ Chapel. Hillsdale College faculty, staff, students, and members of the local community attended.
Timothy McDonnell directed the Chapel Choir, and Hillsdale College Chaplain Adam Rick officiated the service. “These services foster a sense of peace and focus attention back on the gospel of Christ in the midst of all that students have going on,” said Rev. Rick. “The Scripture readings and ancient prayers are very centering, and Dr. McDonnell consistently introduces exemplary music to set the right tone for inspiring faith and worship.
The choir led the congregation in the hymns “Abide With Me” and “O God Our Help in Ages Past” and sang chant settings of Psalm 77, the Magnificat, the Nunc Dimittis, and the medieval evening anthem “Lucis Creator Optime.”
Choral Evensong is a centuries-old Christian service that features scripture, choral anthems, and prayers. The musical portions of Evensong are the Introit, Preces and Responses, Psalmody, two Canticles, a Choral Anthem, Hymns, and the Organ Voluntary. Throughout the remainder of the school year, the college will offer weekly Evensong services. During the seasons of Lent and Easter, the services will reflect the general tenor of the season. Upcoming services will be held on Feb. 5, 12, 19, and 26 and Mar. 5 and 26.
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