Featured Event
October 16, 2024
Choral Evensong for Thomas Cranmer
Presidents’ Prayer Book Viewing at Reception
October 16, 2024
5:30pm
Join us on Wednesday, October 16 as we observe the feast day of Thomas Cranmer, author of the first Book of Common Prayer (1549) and leader of the Anglican Reformation. Following Choral Evensong with St. John’s Choir and Choristers at 5:30 p.m., all are welcome to a reception in Togo West Parlor which will include a rare public viewing of the Presidents’ Prayer Book. Printed in 1856, this treasured artifact from the St. John's Archives was used by several presidents in the second half of the nineteenth century including Abraham Lincoln, Andrew Johnson, and Ulysses S. Grant. Rediscovered in 1961, it has been signed by each president since Herbert Hoover.
Sung at the close of day in cathedrals and churches throughout the world, Evensong is a prayer service derived from the ancient offices of Vespers and Compline. It is an opportunity for peaceful meditation in the midst of a busy week.
Each Evensong at St. John’s is followed by a light reception held in the parlor of the Parish House. Complimentary parking is available in the parking garage at 818 Connecticut Avenue NW. Please see an usher for a validation sticker.