EVEN-SONG (excerpt)
by George Herbert, from “The Temple” (1633)
BLEST be the God of love,
Who gave me eyes, and light, and power this day,
Both to be busie, and to play.
But much more blest be God above,
Who gave me sight alone,
Which to himself he did denie :
For when he sees my waies, I dy :
But I have got his sonne, and he hath none.
Yet still thou goest on,
And now with darknesse closest wearie eyes,
Saying to man, It doth suffice :
Henceforth repose ; your work is done.
My God, thou art all love.
Not one poore minute ‘scapes thy breast,
But brings a favour from above ;
And in this love, more than in bed, I rest.
The Anglican tradition of choral evensong is rich in both music and word, and offers a quiet space for both your week’s end and its beginning. The service juxtaposes scripture, choral and organ music spanning centruies, timely reflections and prayers and songs for both leaders and congregation to join in.
St. James’ Dundas celebrates the Choral office of Evening Prayer on the Fourth Sunday of every month at 4pm, led by its parish choir, soloists, organist, clergy and lay readers. Either a short time of fellowship and refreshment, or else a Community Dinner (separate ticket charge) follows. For information on liturgical observance and music, download the Evensong Flyer 2013.
