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Gary Motley, Piano Emrah Kotan, Drums
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Veronica Motley, Vocals Andy Eula, Bass
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Veronica Motley, Vocals Emrah Kotan, Drums Andy Eula, Bass
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Veronica Motley, Vocals Michael Cruse, Trumpet Andy Eula, Bass
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Holiday Jazz Vespers Service ensemble
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​Vespers originally begun at the rising of the evening star are the Church's Evening Prayer. The fading of the light of day inaugurated the time when lamps were lighted. The Jewish tradition accompanied this transition in time with a blessing prayer and Christians continued the custom. Vespers was also called the evening sacrifice a counterpart of the sacrifice of incense offered every evening in the Temple at Jerusalem. Psalm 140 alludes to this practice, "Let my prayer come like incense before you; the lifting up of my hands like the evening sacrifice." (Psalm 140:2)

The Jazz Vespers service is itself a synthesis of several traditions, each finding a unifying voice through the unique musical heritage we call jazz. The musical tradition is about the task of giving voice to the hopes, dreams, frustrations and pains that express the human experience. Jazz is the musical "incense" that collects and carries the prayers of the people. Jazz is also regarded by many as the music of the social gospel of Jesus Christ, providing a message of healing, hope, empowerment and restoration.

Our very own members Gary Motley, Pianist and Veronica Motley, Vocalist are world renowned Jazz Musicians who join together with several incredibly talented and professional jazz musicians for each service. The Jazz Vespers Services began over 20 years ago and we are thrilled to continue to be able to host this annual event for the community. All are welcome!
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OUR HOLIDAY JAZZ VESPERS SERVICE will be on 
SUNDAY DECEMBER 8TH, 2024
530PM-630PM.


If you're inclined, we gratefully accept donations throughout the year which helps us sustain this program from year to year. You can kindly make a donation during the Service, use Zelle or other options. 
​Please see the 'DONATE' tab above for further details.​​   

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Everyone in the community is cordially invited and welcome to our Annual Holiday Jazz Vespers Service which occurs in early December. We look forward to seeing you there! We would be happy to email you a reminder message about each service. Please email the church to get on our emailing list!

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The services are FREE to all who attend. We collect a free will offering during each service to help offset the costs of the event. 100% of the proceeds go directly to support the Jazz Vespers Services and our Music Programs at ROA.

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Veronica Motley says hello to a couple guests at one of our Jazz Vespers Services