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John Wesley’s Directives for Congregational Singing

John Wesley (1703–1791), one of the founders of the Methodist movement in the Church of England, issued these directives concerning congregational singing in 1761:

Sing all. See that you join with the congregation as frequently as you can. Let not a slight degree of weakness or weariness hinder you. If it is a cross to you, take it up, and you will find it a blessing.

Rave reviews for Exsultate Deo!

Exsultate Deo!

Rave reviews for the new CD recorded by the Choir of St. Barnabas and Organist and Choirmaster Wesley R. Warren

The late-2012 release of the first full-length compact disc recorded by the musicians of St. Barnabas, Ottawa has inspired many – whether musicians themselves or appreciative listeners – to share their comments.

Evensong

Even the word ‘Evensong’ is evocative. In the words of the Prayer at Eventide, in the Book of Common Prayer, ‘[T]he shadows lengthen, and the evening comes, the busy world is hushed...’ At St. Barnabas, we uphold the beautiful tradition of Anglican Evensong, with the devotional Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, on the third Sunday of most months. Many who attend the prayerful, music-filled service are faithful parishioners, familiar with — and thankful for — the constancy and solemnity of the Evensong service according to the Book of Common Prayer.

Missa Orbis Factor in Lent

by Wesley R. Warren, Organist and Choirmaster

Written anonymously sometime between the 14th and 16th centuries, this mass setting has traditionally been appointed for Sundays in Ordinary Time throughout the year. It was particularly popular in Roman Catholic parishes before the Second Vatican Council, rivalling Missa de angelis. At St. Barnabas, we sing it as a congregational setting during Lent.

Mass Settings at St. Barnabas

by Wesley R. Warren, Organist and Choirmaster

Throughout the liturgical year at St. Barnabas, we alternate three congregational settings of the music for the ordinary of the mass — Kyrie eleison (Lord, have mercy), Gloria in excelsis (Glory be to God on high), Credo (I believe in one God), Sanctus (Holy, holy, holy), Benedictus (Blessed is He that cometh) and Agnus Dei (O Lamb of God).

Candlemass

Here is a complete recording of the service of Candlemass (the presentation of Christ in the Temple), which was held Feb. 3.