Issued 11.11.09

New initiative aims to introduce the public to one of Ripon’s ‘best kept secrets’

Cathedral invitation to ‘ Experience Evensong’

Download invitation flyer by clicking here

Members of the public are being invited to experience the beauties of a cathedral service of Evensong at a special open event next week in Ripon. ‘Experience Evensong’ at Ripon Cathedral on Friday November 20th , 5.30pm, is a new initiative aimed at increasing the profile of the service of Evensong, while giving members of the public the opportunity to see the Cathedral Choir rehearsing, and be given a guide to the service itself.

Although all services at the Cathedral are open to the public, this is the first time that a special opportunity has been given for anyone, from regular churchgoers to newcomers, to learn more about the tradition of evening worship in the 12th century building and experience the peace, space and glorious music of Evensong - sung almost every evening at 5.30pm by the Ripon Cathedral Choir.

The Dean of Ripon, the Very Revd Keith Jukes says it will be a memorable experience. “Experience Evensong is about opening up this tradition to anyone who just wants to find out more. Everyone is welcome, and while some people may want to participate in the whole service, simply to sit and listen is just as uplifting.”

A special welcome, a detailed booklet explaining each part of the service, tea and coffee afterwards, and the chance to watch the choir rehearsing are all part of the event.

Dean Keith says that Evensong is one of the Cathedral’s ‘best kept secrets’ but one appreciated by a growing number of people. “During the time that I served at the Cathedral I have come to realise how much people appreciate Evensong. Some people attend because they like that particular style of worship, others attend to listen to the Choir and others attend for no particular reason at all. One fact however unites all these people, which is they deeply appreciate the experience, and a recurring theme is that they all find it peaceful and spiritually uplifting. What I have come to see is that Evensong is a very important part of our ministry and our wish is to open it up to as many people who would like to come.”

More information is available from music@riponcathedral.org.uk or on 01765 603496.

ENDS

Diary Dates. Please could the event be added to Events listings.

Experience Evensong, 5.30pm, Friday November 20th, Ripon Cathedral – experience the atmosphere and glorious music of this short service, receive a free guidebook and see the Cathedral Choir rehearse. Admission free – refreshments available.

Press: For further information please contact Edmund Aldhouse 01765 603496

Issued by John Carter (Rev)
Press and Communications Officer, Diocese of Ripon and Leeds

jhgcarter@aol.com
01423 530369 or mobile 07798 652707