June 2017

Introducing MemChurch Music Wednesdays: Stephen Paulus (1949–2014): Part 1, The Three Hermits

MemChurch Music Wednesdays!

Each week, we will post music from the Harvard University Choir on our website and social media. We start with selections from the Harvard University Choir's performance of The Three Hermits. Enjoy!

View the program

Stephen Paulus (1949–2014): Scene 1, Part 1: The Three Hermits (1997) a church opera in one act. Harvard University Choir; Edward Elwyn Jones, conductor; David McFerrin (Bishop); Clare McNamara (Mother). (Icon image courtesy of Guirguis Boktor, Coptic Art Studio). 23 October 2016.

A remarkable year

Choirmaster Edward Jones rehearses with University Choir at Paine Hall

By Edward E. Jones

It has been a remarkable year for the Memorial Church, during which the Harvard University Choir has flourished. Due to the renovation project, the Fall Term was spent in diaspora: services and performances were held in a wide variety of venues, each with their own challenges and benefits. The choir and the music program have grown as a result of our peregrinations.

Auditions for the choir were held in the opulent surroundings of the Paine Hall — the music department’s concert hall, named for the first University organist and choirmaster — which became home-base for our weekly rehearsals.... Read more about A remarkable year

A family in fellowship

Professor Jonathan L. Walton

By Professor Jonathan L. Walton

“I am writing you little children, because your sins are forgiven on account of God’s name. I am writing to you fathers, because you have known God since the beginning. I write to you, young people, because you are strong, and the word of God abides in you.” (I John 2:12-14)

The New Testament book of I John is a profound pastoral letter. The author, known simply as the elder, reminds an early community of Jesus followers of their beliefs—God is light and love. He reminds them of their objectives—to have fellowship with God is to walk in God’s light and love.... Read more about A family in fellowship