Candlemas Choral Vespers

Forty days after his birth, Jesus was presented in the temple in accordance with Jewish custom, as recounted in Luke 2:22-40. At the temple was an old man named Simeon, to whom the Holy Spirit had promised that he would not die without seeing the messiah. Recognizing Jesus as the Messiah in that moment, Simeon declared his praise to God in what would become known as the “Song of Simeon,” or the Nunc Dimittis. In his song, Simeon says: “My own eyes have seen the salvation… a light to reveal you to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.” This is the story we celebrate on Candlemas, which is traditionally forty days after Christmas, though we will observe it on January 31. As part of the service, we will have a candle blessing. The Central Choir will lead this special vespers service in celebration of Christ as the light of the world. This event is free, open to the public, and no tickets are required.

Music will include:
William Byrd – Senex puerum portabat
Herbert Murrill – Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis (from Evening Service in E Major)
Olaf C. Christiansen – Light Everlasting