Again this year, the cathedral will be observing an expanded Advent, reclaiming the ancient tradition of a seven-week season of watching, waiting, and preparing for the coming of Christ.
As part of our observance of Advent, we will be offering a short, online service of evening devotions at 5 pm on Wednesdays, starting on November 11th. These services will be livestreamed from the cathedral chancel, with just a handful of worship leaders, socially distanced and observing diocesan protocols. The service will include the lighting of the Advent wreath, the O Antiphons written by Carole-Jean Smith, organ and solo voice, brief readings and prayers, and a short reflection on the O Antiphon.
While we are not inviting a congregation to gather on site, we would like to have a few lay leaders participate in worship leadership each week. For those who are healthy and able to come to the cathedral, this will be an opportunity not just to serve, but also to be nourished by returning briefly to our beloved sacred space. One lay leader will light the Advent wreath and lead the scripture reading and the prayers. The other will give a short reflection, keyed to the “O Antiphon” for the week. Here is a place to sign up to participate. Please only volunteer for one spot for now, until everyone who would like to participate has a chance to do so. If there are still openings after all have signed up, we will invite people to take another spot.