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 and Veronica Motley, world renowned Jazz Musicians, join a few of their incredibly talented and professional jazz musicians for each service.

OUR HOLIDAY JAZZ VESPERS SERVICE for 2021 IS ON:

Date: SUNDAY DECEMBER 12TH
AT 530PM-630PM.

SOCIAL DISTANCING AND MASKS ENCOURAGED IN THE SANCTUARY DUE TO THE ONGOING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

If you're inclined, you can mail any donation to ROA with note of "Jazz Vespers Service' which helps us sustain this program each year or kindly make a
donation during the Service.

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Everyone in the community is welcome to our Jazz Vespers Services which occur in May, September and 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 recent Jazz Vespers Services