sung choral vespers
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Vespers Schedule for 2025 and 2026Vespers for the Solemnity of Christ the King
Date: Sunday, November 23, 2025
Time: 4:00pm in the Main Church
Vespers for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi and the
Rite of Installation of New Choristers
Date:Sunday, June 7, 2026
Time: 4:00pm in the Main Church -
What is Vespers?
Vespers is part of the Liturgy of the Hours, also known as the Divine Office. In the Liturgy of the Hours, the Church fulfills Jesus’ command to “pray always.” Through this prayer, the people of God sanctify the day by continual praise of God and prayers of intercession for the needs of the world.The Liturgy of the Hours includes several specified times of prayer. The most important times, called the “hinge hours,” are Morning Prayer (prayed upon rising) and Evening Prayer (prayed as dusk begins to fall). The other hours are the Office of Readings (may be prayed any time during the day and includes a biblical reading and a reading from the Fathers, Church writers or a reading related to a saint), a Daytime Prayer (prayed at midmorning, midday or mid afternoon) and Night Prayer (prayed before going to sleep).
Bishops, priests, deacons, and many men and women in consecrated life pray the Liturgy of the Hours each day. Their work is organized around this prayer, keeping God always at the center of their life. Lay people are encouraged to pray the Liturgy of the Hours as well, especially Morning and Evening Prayer (Vespers).
Evening Prayer offers thanks for the day just past and makes an evening sacrifice of praise to God. Solemn Vespers indicates Evening Prayer that is chanted or sung. When prayed with others, or “in choir,” one side sings or chants while the other listens in an alternating fashion. With this pattern, we proclaim God’s word and then receive God’s word as it is sung back to us. -
Who Can Attend?Vespers can be attended by anyone It is accessible for everyone; you don't need to be a regular attendee of the parish to enjoy Vespers; newcomers are welcome to participate as much or as little as they wish. A program is provided so that one can sing the psalms, and sing the hymns. It's a quiet experience designed to be a tranquil break from daily busyness, allowing participants to find peace and listen to beautiful music.
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Can Children Attend?The answer is YES! Below are a few reasons you should bring your child/children.
- Exposure to Sacred Music: Children gain exposure to high-quality choral music and the beauty of sacred art.
- Learning about Tradition: It provides an experience of history, artistry, and a tradition that can enrich their spiritual lives.
- Promoting Calmness: The quiet and reflective nature of Evensong can help children develop self-regulation and a sense of peace
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Structure of the Service
- Opening: with an introductory verse and a hymn.
- Psalmody: Chanting or reciting psalms from the Old Testament.
- Scripture Reading: A short reading from the Bible.
- Choral Anthem: A choral work that represents season.
- Magnificat: The singing of the Canticle of Mary.
- Intercessions: Prayers for the needs of the Church and the world.
- Lord's Prayer: The "Our Father" is prayed.
- Concluding Prayer and Dismissal: A final prayer and blessing are offered.