The Jazz Vespers program at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection (a member congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) was begun in 1985 by Dr. Bruce Anderson, the Pastor of Resurrection. Bruce was a professional musician prior to entering the ordained ministry in 1974.
The mission of the Vespers is to honor jazz musicians and jazz music in the church which has been a patron of the arts since the early Middle Ages, and stimulated the creation of great works of art, music, literature and drama.
The program features Chicago jazz musicians and other guests. A brief liturgy of evening prayer or Suffrages, readings from the Bible, a brief meditation, usually a devotional reading, poem or poetic prayer, and selected Psalms read by the congregation with improvised musical accompaniment and prayer provide the framework for up to two hours of jazz music. Interspersed with the liturgy the musicians and their music are featured in a concert setting.
The program also seeks to honor the jazz musicians in the area by giving them a setting that is warm, intimate and welcoming of their gifts. Vespers begin with a gathering and greeting time at 7:30 p.m., with the actual program beginning at 7:45 p.m.
Jazz Vespers is also an outreach and social ministry project which donates a portion of the free will offering to LSSI/Augustana Ministries for the Disabled
and is matched by Thrivent Financial Services.
Following the Vespers program a coffee and refreshment hour is held in the church basement.
Vespers services are held on the first Sunday of the month from September through June, with additional Vespers services usually on the third Sunday of the month.
The Vespers are open to all people, regardless of religious beliefs. They provide an unusual setting and opportunity to enjoy hearing the best musicians in Chicago.
Jazz Vespers is a partner ministry with Music Serving the Word Ministries. Music Serving the Word Ministries exists to worship God through music and art forms that serve His Word! (www.musicservingthe word.org)
We invite you to attend.
top