Activities - Saint Mark's Episcopal Cathedral

Blossom Abundantly—SSC Storytelling Fundraiser

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on December 1, 2021 with No Comments

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2021, 2 P.M., via Zoom, registration requested.

The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad; the desert shall rejoice and blossom like the crocus; it shall blossom abundantly and rejoice with joy and singing.

— Isaiah 35:1–2a

JOIN US December 12 at 2 p.m. for a one-hour storytelling fundraiser that showcases how Corps members continue to “Blossom Abundantly” in SSC.

Hear stories of growth and formation as our Corps members share their hopes and goals for this year. Hear how they are following the Way of Jesus and discerning their own ministry in the world. Plus, a special appearance by a recent Service Corps Alum!

Special Parish Forum—Statement of Lament and Commitment to Action

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 21, 2021 with No Comments

UPDATED WITH VIDEO

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 6:30-8 P.M.

Hybrid gathering: in Bloedel Hall and via Zoom (registration requested for either option so we can plan accordingly)

Earlier this year the Vestry unanimously adopted the Statement of Lament and Commitment to Action as a guide for our important work as individuals and community as we strive for justice and peace and respect for every human being. It is a substantial document with a broad range of statements leading to actionable ways we are called to live and act in the world. In the special parish forum, to which all are invited and encouraged to attend, we will reflect together, unpack the document, and break into groups which will focus on specific areas of work including:

1. Addressing Homeless and Hunger in Seattle,
2. Cathedral innovations for Reparations,
3. Racial Justice and Healing,
4. Global Justice ministries,
5. Immigration Ministries,
6. Networking with Affiliate Partners in Ministry.

View a complete video of the forum below.

Download the presentation slides here (pdf).

Download the litany prayed during the forum here (pdf).

Friends Talking: Pastor Carey Anderson

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 21, 2021 with No Comments

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Guest Sermon: 9 A.M. &11 A.M. EUCHARISTS

"Friends Talking" Forum with Pastor Anderson in Conversation with Dean Steve: 10:10–10:50 A.M., Bloedel Hall

Longtime pastor of First AME Church The Rev. Dr. Carey Anderson will preach at Saint Mark’s Cathedral, at both the 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. services, as part of our deepening commitment to the relationship between Dean Steve and Pastor Carey, and our two faith communities. (Dean Steve has been invited to preach at First AME in January 2022.)

Rev. Dr. Carey G. Anderson is the Senior Minister of First AME Church, Seattle, WA, where he has served since November 2004. Prior to his appointment at FAME, Pastor Anderson was Pastor of St. Paul AME Church in Wichita, KS from 2000-2004, and had been the Pastor of Bethel AME Church in Reno, Nevada from 1984 to 2000. Pastor Anderson holds a B.A. Degree from California State University, Hayward; a Master of Divinity Degree from Pacific School of Religion Theological Seminary, Berkeley, CA; and a Doctor of Ministry Degree from St. Paul School of Theology, Kansas City, MO. He serves or has served on the boards of Habitat for Humanity, The City of Seattle's Equitable Communities Initiative Task Force, the Communities of Concern Commission (Executive Committee Vice Chair), the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, and others. He is renowned for his preaching and leadership in the Seattle faith community and for his commitment to restorative justice. Welcome, Pastor Anderson!

Thanksgiving Day Eucharist 2021

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 21, 2021 with No Comments

The “O” Antiphons Advent Liturgy, 2021

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 21, 2021 with 1 Comment

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2021, 7 P.M., in person in the cathedral nave, or livestreamed at saintmarks.org/livestream

Please note: For the sake of safety, pre-registration is required to attend this year's "O" Antiphons liturgy, and proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID test* must be presented. More information about this policy may be read at saintmarks.org/advent

The annual "O" Antiphons Liturgy is considered by many to be a highlight of the liturgical year at Saint Mark's. The particular form of this liturgy that we use was invented here, first presented in 1986, and is today used by churches around the world. It is similar to a "Lessons & Carols" service, but rather than presenting a linear narrative from scripture, it is structured around seven medieval antiphons, each beginning with the word "O ," which also form the basis of the hymn "O Come O Come Emmanuel."

The liturgy is a poetic exploration of resonant images of Christ found in the antiphons—star, key, root, cornerstone—while drawing the connections between the first advent of Jesus, when he came into our world 2,000 years ago, with both the long-expected coming of the Christ at the end of time, as well as the coming of Christ into the human heart. This beloved cathedral tradition provides a moving and evocative entrance into the Advent season of prayerful expectation.

Incense is used. This year's event will feature the world premiere of a commissioned anthem by Dr. Zanaida Robles; learn more here.

* Following King County guidelines, a negative COVID test must be a professionally-administered PCR test, with the test taken in the prior 72 hours. Rapid antigen test is not acceptable for admission.

Advent Quiet Morning 2021

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 21, 2021 with No Comments

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4, 9 A.M.–12:30 P.M., at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Green Lake — 111 NE 80th St., Seattle

Join Christine Sine at Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church for this special Quiet Morning. Breath prayers, walking meditation, creative and contemplative activities, and unstructured time for quiet reflection will help us rekindle the wonder of Advent. Enjoy the wonderful opportunity for inner reflection and renewing silence as the season of prayerful expectation unfolds.

This event is co-sponsored by Saint Mark’s Cathedral and Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Church. Free, with donations gratefully accepted ($10–15 suggested).

Intergenerational Crèche Sharing Event

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 20, 2021 with No Comments

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5, 10:10–10:50 A.M., in person in Bloedel Hall or online via Zoom.

You are invited to bring a crèche (nativity scene) from home and share a story about it.

Everyone is welcome—"intergenerational" simply means the presence and participation of two or more generations and really isn’t code for "children and families"—though children and families are warmly encouraged to participate!

For those participating in person, don't forget to bring your nativity scene with you when you come to church on Sunday! There will tables in Bloedel Hall where you can display your crèche, and during the event you will be invited to share a brief story about it.

If you would like to participate from home, join using this Zoom link. Then simply take your phone or computer—however you are joining us online—to where your crèche is set up, and use the "raise hand" function or drop a note in the chat box to let us know when you’re ready to share your story .

If you do not have a crèche, we’ll have supplies to make a simple one (with several options) in Bloedel Hall. Dean Thomason will bless all the crèches at the conclusion of the event.

For a taste of the enormous diversity of nativity scenes, take a look at this online exhibit of crèches from the collection of the National Cathedral, which has a collection of hundreds from around the world.

This will be the first of many joyful intergenerational offerings in this new church year. If you have ideas for future activities or events that build community and encourage the spiritual nurture across generations, please contact Wendy Claire Barrie, Canon for Intergenerational Ministries: wbarrie@saintmarks.org or 206.323.0300 x223

Join using this Zoom link.

“Spreadable Hope” 20s/30s Advent Event

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 17, 2021 with No Comments

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 2, 6 P.M., Leffler House

Drop-in to decorate and frost cookies at Leffler House for an Advent gathering to benefit Edible Hope. Frosting and decorations will be provided. Bring your own pre-baked sugar cookies either homemade or bought. We recommend trying this go-to recipe from Jade Bawcom-Randall. Decorated cookies will be delivered to Edible Hope on Friday, December 3. There will also be an opportunity for those who want to volunteer for the morning meal at Edible Hope from 7-9 am on Friday, December 3. Email Emily Meeks (emcmeeks@gmail.com) with questions or if interested in volunteering.

Advent/Christmas Worship Update—November 8, 2021

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 9, 2021 with 2 Comments

Dean Thomason has prepared this brief (3-minute) video message below with important updates regarding the large Advent and Christmas liturgies.

In summary: five services—"O" Antiphons, The Pageant of the Nativity, and the Christmas Eve services at 4 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 11 p.m.—will require that worshippers register online in advance, have total attendance capped, and require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test (PCR test administered less than 72 hours before the event) for those 12 and older. Other services, including Christmas Day, will not require pre-registration or screening.

Please Note

For the safety of all, The “O” Antiphons Liturgy, Pageant of the Nativity, and Christmas Eve services only will require pre-registration, and will follow King County guidelines for large indoor events—proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test* will be required for admission.

Register to attend The "O" Antiphons service here. Note that when you register, you will be given the option of sending your proof of vaccination in advance, which will speed up the check-in process on the evening of the event. Look for instructions in the confirmation email you receive when you register.

Pre-registration and screening will not be required for other events, including Christmas Day. All must be masked at all times while inside the cathedral buildings (except when leading worship).

The designated "distanced" and "undistanced" sections of the nave will remain. Unvaccinated worshippers are asked to sit in the "distanced" section, but it is available for anyone who wishes to stay apart from others for any reason. Please note, however, that for all services, including those which require pre-registration, the distanced section is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so you may wish to arrive early.

* Following King County guidelines, a negative COVID test must be a professionally-administered PCR test, with the test taken in the prior 72 hours. Rapid antigen test is not acceptable for admission.

Find the complete schedule of events, registration links, and the most up-to-date information at:

saintmarks.org/advent

A Report from El Salvador by Elizabeth Hawkins

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 9, 2021 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 6:45–8:15 P.M, via Zoom

Community member Elizabeth Hawkins has been living and working in San Salvador since 2019. A former immigration attorney, she travelled to El Salvador to research the complex factors that lead people to attempt to emigrate to the United States. Learn more about Elizabeth below. Dean Thomason and Canon Rosario-Cruz will facilitate the discussion. Join using this Zoom link.

Please note the the announcement in the printed leaflet incorrectly implied that this conversation would also be offered in person in Bloedel Hall. In fact, this event will be online-only via Zoom.

Bishop’s Visitation: November 14, 2021

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 4, 2021 with No Comments

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14, ALL SERVICES

Forum with the Bishop: 10:10–10:50 A.M., Bloedel Hall

Bishop Rickel to Make His Triennial Visitation

Bishop Rickel will make his official visitation to Saint Mark’s Cathedral, preaching and presiding at 8 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. services, and he will offer Confirmation and Reception at the latter two services. A forum in Bloedel Hall will be held at 10:15 a.m., and he will meet with the vestry in the afternoon. We welcome our bishop to his cathedral on this day of celebration.

Please note that incense will be used at the 11 a.m. service. The 8 & 9 a.m. services will be incense-free.

Youth Bonfire & Neighborhood Trash Pickup

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on November 4, 2021 with No Comments

Choral Evensong in celebration of All Saints and commemoration of All Souls

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 27, 2021 with No Comments

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 7, 4:30 P.M.

In person and livestreamed at: https://saintmarks.org/worship/live-stream/

Saint Mark's Cathedral invites one and all to join in prayer and praise at nightfall to celebrate All Saints, and to commemorate the lives of all those whom we love but see no longer. Saint Mark's Evensong Choir will offer a setting of the Magnificat and Nunc dimittis by Philip Stopford, composed in 2014 for the Evening Choir of St. Anne's Cathedral, Belfast, Ireland, and sung here for the first time on this occasion. In addition, the choir will offer Grayston Ives' warmly resonant setting of Isaac Watts' reassuring hymn, There is a land of pure delight.

Choral Evensong is a treasure among Christian liturgies in the Anglican tradition. At Saint Mark's, this choir is composed of select Choir School Senior Choristers, the Cathedral Schola, and adults from the Cathedral Choir. Learn more about the Evensong Choir here.

Kuhon Raigo-zu IV for organ -- a meditation on Paradise and The Pure Land, by Hina Sakamoto

Immediately after Choral Evensong on November 7, Canon Kleinschmidt will offer the North American premiere of a 12-minute work for pipe organ by Hina Sakamoto (born 1968), called Kuhon Raigo-zu IV. It is in three movements, each of which incorporates the Gregorian melody of the commendation anthem, In Paradisum, from the Requiem Mass. Kuhon Raigo-zu, was inspired by a famous painting in the Byodoin Temple in Kyoto in which the Buddha Amida descends on a cloud to escort a faithful disciple at the moment of death into the Pure Land, or Paradise. Hina Sakamoto resides in Yokohama, Japan. Many of her compositions for organ are based on Gregorian themes. All of them display exquisite craftsmanship.

Read more about the piece here: Kuhon Raigo-zu IV commentary

These notes by the composer were written for a performance in Yokohama given by the work's dedicatee, Hatsumi Miura, in November 2020, and are translated by Steven Dieck.

Nominate a candidate for Vestry or Diocesan Convention

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 22, 2021 with No Comments

Now Open: Nominations for candidates for the Saint Mark’s Vestry and for Delegates to Diocesan Convention 2022

The Vestry is a group of laypeople elected by the parish who, along with the Rector, supervise and sustain the finances, facilities and grounds of the Cathedral. New members are needed for both the vestry and to act as delegates at this year's Diocesan Convention.

Members of the Nominating Committee will be in the back of the Nave each Sunday in October to answer questions and accept names of those interested. If you would like to nominate someone or would like more information about either of these important roles, please send an email to nominations@saintmarks.org or look here.

Hymnathon!—A Fundraiser for the Evensong Choir Pilgrimage, 2022

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 22, 2021 with 3 Comments

UPDATED WITH VIDEO!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30, 8-6 P.M.

Saint Mark’s Evensong Choir of children, youth and adults plan to be in England next August to sing daily Evensong services in Chichester and Bristol Cathedrals. They are dedicating as much of their own resources toward the total cost of their pilgrimage as they can. However, they need to raise some additional funds so that the trip is affordable for all. To that end, the choir is hosting a Hymnathon on Saturday, October 30, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Evensong choir members and others will sing at least one stanza of all 720 hymns in our hymnal! You are invited to join in the fun. For more information, please visit the Hymnathon Table at coffee hour.

Convention on Climate Change Events

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 22, 2021 with 2 Comments

COP26 KICK-OFF: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 28, 10 A.M. PST, Register here

COP26 WORSHIP SERVICE: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 8 A.M. PST, Register here

COP26 CLOSING EVENT: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 8 A.M. PST, Register here

UPDATE: The Episcopal Church's Creation Care office has published a piece by Dr. Lisa Graumlich titled COP26 — What to watch for? What to pray for?.

Attend Virtual COP26 Public Events

From October 31 through November 12, 2021, 120 political leaders will gather in Glasgow, Scotland, for the United Nations 26th Conference of Parties of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26), which feels to many like the last chance for coordinated global action to prevent the most catastrophic consequences of human-caused climate change. Saint Mark's Parishioner and American Geophysical Union president-elect Dr. Lisa Graumlich has been invited to be part of The Episcopal Church delegation to this potentially historic meeting. You are invited to register and attend the public events below.

Episcopal Climate Advocacy at the UN: COP26 Kick-Off with the Presiding Bishop’s Delegation

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 28, 10 A.M. PST, Register here

Join the Episcopal Presiding Bishop’s Delegates to the United Nations 26^th Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP26) and our partners for this public launch event! Participants will meet our delegates and get an introduction to global climate advocacy through a faith lens, just in time for the start of COP26 on October 31^st, 2021. We will share Episcopal policy priorities and advocacy strategies, and invite the whole Episcopal Church to join in prayer and witness for this critical global conference.

Liturgy for Planetary Crisis: Episcopal Worship Service during COP26

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 8 A.M. PST, Register here

Please join in prayer and worship with our Episcopal Presiding Bishop’s Delegation and all who have been present in witness and advocacy at this global climate conference. This service is open to all and will focus on the need for swift, just action to bring us back into right relationships across the human family and with all of God’s creation. The liturgy will draw on our Episcopal tradition and beyond and will offer strength to the community at COP26.

COP26 Closing Event: Report Back from the Presiding Bishop’s Delegation

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 11 A.M. PST, Register here

As the 26th Conference of Parties of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change draws to an end on November 12th, gather with Episcopal advocates and ecumenical partners for this closing event. Our Presiding Bishop’s Delegation will offer reports from their witness at the conference, as well as top line summaries from the negotiations. We will finish with a faith-led vision of the future for Episcopal advocacy around climate change.

19th Annual Community Multi-Faith Summit

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 20, 2021 with No Comments

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2 P.M.

Faith—Science—Sacred Activism. Hear from leaders of various faiths, including First Peoples, Buddhist, Jewish, and Christian, as they share how their faith tradition calls them to act on climate change. And then join in the discussion with panelists about actions communities can take together to be part of hopeful solutions. This online-only event is co-sponsored by Saint Mark's.

Register here, or contact Marjorie Ringness or Libby Carr if you have questions.

View the PDF flyer here.

The Rubric: Fall 2021 Issue

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 20, 2021 with No Comments

Contents of the Fall 2021 issue include:

GREETINGS FROM THE DEAN
Looking to the future with uncertainty and excitement

ATTENDANCE SNAPSHOT
online and in-person worship, by the numbers

LITURGICAL LIVING: "EVEN AT THE GRAVE WE MAKE OUR SONG"
The Rev. Nancy Ross on the meaning of funerals

PRACTICING ABUNDANCE
The many gifts of planned giving

PHOTO ROUNDUP
Great Days in the Life of the Church

MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE
Facilities improvements and collective actions in response to climate change

GETTING TO KNOW THE NEIGHTBORS
The cathedral’s partnership with Lowell Elementary

... and more!

A World-Premiere Commission for the O Antiphons Liturgy, 2021

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 15, 2021 with No Comments

O Antiphons is a beloved annual liturgy of music and pageantry that marks the beginning of Advent —the season of longing, vigilance, and expectation in preparation for Christmas—which this year is offered Sunday, November 28, 2021, at 7 p.m.. The form of this liturgy that was invented here is now used in churches around the world.

An exciting element of this year's service will be the world premiere of a newly commissioned anthem, conceived and written expressly for the Saint Mark's Cathedral Choir, for the O Antiphons liturgy, and for our space. The work has been composed by Dr. Zanaida Robles of Los Angeles, a renowned vocalist, conductor, clinician, and adjudicator, and a fierce advocate for diversity and inclusion in music. The anthem, titled Ecstatic Expectancy, responds in both content and feeling to the O Antiphons liturgy, while offering a meditation on the evocative verse from Psalm 85: Mercy and Truth have met together; Righteousness and Peace have kissed each other.

This project was supported by the Saint Mark's Vestry, and was not funded by a particular donor—the commission came from the cathedral music program's own resources.

About the composer

Dr. Zainda Robles holds a doctorate from the Thornton School of Music at the University of Southern California. She is currently a performing arts instructor at Harvard-Westlake Upper School in Studio City, CA, as well as the director of music at Neighborhood Unitarian Universalist Church in Pasadena, CA. Read her complete biography and learn much more at her website.

UPDATE: A rendition of the commissioned anthem by the Cathedral Choir (recorded at a Eucharist service a few weeks after the 2021 "O" Antiphons service) can be seen below.

Linzi Stahlecker appointed as Curate in 2022

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 13, 2021 with 2 Comments

A Message from Dean Thomason

Dear friends,

It is my delight to share the news that Bishop Rickel has appointed Linzi Stahlecker to serve a two-year curacy-in-training program at Saint Mark’s Cathedral. Her first day will be January 16, 2022. She is a candidate for the priesthood in this diocese, having been raised up in the community of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Lower Queen Anne. She is scheduled to be ordained a transitional deacon in December, and as a priest next June.

Linzi is a native of London, England, a 1993 graduate of the University of London. She immigrated to the U.S. in 2001 and earned her Master of Divinity earlier this year from Seattle University. Her work history affords an array of life experience—birth doula, mindfulness program leader, corporate executive for Eddie Bauer, and television researcher and producer.

In our tradition, curates are newly ordained priests serving in an internship of sorts as they continue their formation. Linzi brings many gifts to this role, and she will be a capable member of the team of clergy engaging the full array of parish priestly ministry. We are glad for the appointment, and we look forward to her ministry in our midst. One additional note: at my invitation, she was guest preacher at Saint Mark’s in July of this year, and you can listen to her sermon on a very difficult text.

Please join me in welcoming Linzi, her husband Troy, and their teenaged children to the cathedral community. I am,

Yours, in Christ,

The Very Rev. Steven L. Thomason
Dean and Rector

A Message from Linzi Stahlecker

Dear people of Saint Mark’s,

I have followed a somewhat circuitous path into ordained ministry, yet it is a path on which I have lived a lot and learned even more. I look forward to sharing stories from my journey and to hearing yours, to serving and learning together in community, worshipping alongside you, and proclaiming the gospel amongst you. January can’t come soon enough!

I am grateful to Bishop Rickel for this appointment, and to the Dean for his welcome—I could not be more thrilled to be joining the cathedral community. Thanks be to God!

With love,

Linzi Stahlecker

Organ by Night

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 12, 2021 with 8 Comments

Post-Compline Organ Music: A favorite Seattle late-night musical offering, now offered monthly

For many year, the Office of Compline at Saint Mark's was followed by a brief program of organ music on The Mighty Flentrop. These informal mini-concerts have introduced generations of Seattleites to the power and beauty of a real pipe organ. All are welcome to listen in the nave, or join the organist in the loft to see what playing an instrument of this size is really like. (The radio program The Organ Loft, which airs on KING-FM immediately following Compline each week, was inspired by this tradition.)

Now presented under the auspices of the Saint Mark's Music Series, these recitals were relaunched as Organ by Night and are offered once a month, on the third Sunday of each month. Attendees may listen from the nave or join the organist in the loft. A Q&A with the organist follows the performance.

Note: The decision to include these informal presentations on the Compline livestream is left to the discretion of the organist. Some prefer not to, for a variety or reasons. The choice to livestream Organ by Night or not will typically not be announced in advance.

Upcoming Recitalists:

2026

JANUARY 18: Wyatt Smith, Instructor of Organ & Harpsichord, Epiphany Music Academy
FEBRUARY 15: Michael Kleinschmidt, Canon Musician, Saint Mark's Cathedral
MARCH 15: Kyle Haugen, Cantor, Queen Anne Lutheran Church in Seattle
APRIL 19: Shari Shull, Minister of Music at Agnus Dei Lutheran Church, Gig Harbor
MAY 17: John Stuntebeck, Associate Organist, Saint Mark's Cathedral
JUNE 21: Susanna Valleau, Director of Music, Saint Dunstan's, Shoreline
JULY 19: Ralph Holtzhauser, Diocesan Music Director for the Diocese of Youngstown and Music Director of the Cathedral of St. Columba, Ohio
AUGUST 16: Michael Kleinschmidt, Canon Musician, Saint Mark's Cathedral

Past Recitalists:

2025:

DECEMBER 21: Christopher Stroh, Assistant Director of Music and Organist, St. James (RC) Cathedral, Seattle
NOVEMBER 16: Paul Meier, Organist, St. Thomas of Medina, Bellevue
OCTOBER 19: Martha Freitag, Freelance Organist in the greater Seattle area
SEPTEMBER 21: John Stuntebeck, Associate Organist, Saint Mark's Cathedral
AUGUST 17: Mark McDonald, Assistant Director of Music at Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria, BC
JULY 20: Wyatt Smith, Instructor of Organ & Harpsichord, Epiphany Music Academy
JUNE 15: Shari Shull, Minister of Music at Agnus Dei Lutheran Church, Gig Harbor
MAY 18: John Stuntebeck, Associate Organist, Saint Mark's Cathedral
APRIL 20: Michael Kleinschmidt, Canon Musician, Saint Mark's Cathedral
MARCH 16: Kyle Haugen, Cantor, Queen Anne Lutheran Church in Seattle
FEBRUARY 16: Amiel Elfert, Organ Scholar, Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria BC
JANUARY 19, 2025: Michael Plagerman, Director of Sacred Music, The Church of the Blessed Sacrament, Seattle

2024:

2023:

SUNDAY, JULY 16, 2023:

By Michael Kleinschmidt, Canon for Cathedral Music at Saint Mark's Cathedral playing Metamorphosis II by Philip Glass, Variation IX (Adagio) "Nimrod" from Variations on an Original Theme, Op. 36 (The Enigma Variations) by Edward Elgar, and Annum per annum by Arvo Pärt.

SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2023:

By Susanna Valleau, music director of St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church in Shoreline playing Five Sacred Dances (III., IV., & V.) by Margaret Vardell Sandresky and Happiness by Ad Wammes.

SUNDAY, MAY 21, 2023:

By Christopher Stroh, Assistant Director of Music and Organist at St. James Cathedral playing Postlude pour l'Office de Complies by Jehan Alain, Chorale Prelude on "Slane" (At the close of the day) by Healey Willan, Florete, flores! (Bloom, flowers!) by Mary Elizabeth Downey, and Variations on Jesu dulcis memoria by Jessica French.

SUNDAY, APRIL 16, 2023:

By Wyatt Smith, Instructor of Organ & Harpsichord, Epiphany Music Academy and Affiliate Artist in Organ & Harpsichord, University of Puget Sound, Psalm Sonata No. 1 by Brenda Portman, (II. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalm 91:1)), Prelude in C, BWV 547 by J. S. Bach, Salem Seasons by Margaret Sandresky (I. Spring - “Apple Blossoms and Imaginary Birds”), and The Seven Last Words and Triumph of Christ by Pamela Decker, (VIII. Passacaglia: Procession to the Tomb & IX. Toccata: The Resurrection).

SUNDAY, MARCH 19, 2023:

By Mark McDonald, Assistant Director of Music at Christ Church Cathedral, Victoria, BC playing Klagelied BuxWV 76 by Dieterich Buxtehude, Wenn wir in höchsten Nöten sein, BWV Anh. 78 by J. S. Bach, Récit de Nazard by Bengt Hambraeus, and Firebird: Berceus and Final by Igor Stravansky, arranged by Maurice Besly.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19, 2023:

By Associate Organist John Stuntebeck playing A Little More Faith in Jesus by John W. Work III, Nigerian Suite No. 2 by Godwin Sadoh, Andante by Florence Price, and Fanfare and Chorale by Calvin Fuller.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 15, 2023:

By Canon Kleinschmidt, playing Adoration by Florence Price, Praeludium in D by Buxtehude, Prelude and Fugue in B by Saint-Saëns, and Toccata on “Lift every voice and sing” by Mark Miller.

2022

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2022:

By Canon Kleinschmidt

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2022:

By Canon Kleinschmidt, playing music by Faure, Hina Sakamoto, and J.S. Bach that echo themes of All Saints- and All Souls-tide, and look ahead to the celebration of Thanksgiving.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2022:

By Andrew Koch, with works of Felix Mendelssohn, Dieterich Buxtehude, and J.S. Bach.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2022:

By Canon Kleinschmidt, with works by Jehan Alain, Dieterich Buxtehude, David N. Johnson, and Eugene Gigout

SUNDAY, AUGUST 21, 2022:

TBD

SUNDAY, JULY 17, 2022:

By Associate Organist John Stuntebeck

SUNDAY, JUNE 19, 2022:

By David Boekh, the newly appointed Associate Organist of Saint James Episcopal Cathedral, Chicago, playing music of Rolande Falcinelli, Gerre Hancock, and Charles Tournemire.

SUNDAY, MAY 15, 2022:

By Canon Michael Kleinschmidt, playing two brief pieces by Jehan Alain, along with Maurice Duruflé's Prelude & Fugue on the name of Alain

SUNDAY, APRIL 17, 2022:

On Easter Sunday, Canon Michael Kleinschmidt played J.S. Bach's beloved Passacaglia and Fugue in C Minor, and the Toccata from Widor's Fifth Symphony.

SUNDAY, MARCH 20, 2022:

Cancelled due to illness.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022:

By Canon Michael Kleinschmidt, with music by Bach and Bruhns and, in honor of Black History Month, music of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor and a rousing Toccata on Lift every voice and sing by Mark A. Miller.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 16, 2022:

By Cathedral Music Intern Lucas Jindra

2021

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2021

For this December iteration of Organ by Night, Compline Choir Director Jason Anderson offered works by Near, Rippen, Walcha, Pachelbel, and Diemer.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2021

In anticipation of the season, Associate Organist John Stuntebeck improvised and played compositions on Advent themes by Marcel Dupré, Rebecca Groom te Velde, and Dieterich Buxtehude.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2021

Canon Kleinschmidt joined in celebrating the 65th anniversary of The Compline Choir by offering Messiaen's Vision of the Eternal Church. Then, in anticipation of Halloween, he played two brief pieces associated with phantoms: Alain's Fantasmagorie, and Bach's famous Toccata and Fugue in D minor.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 22, 2021

For the first Organ by Night on Sunday, August 22, Canon Michael Kleinschmidt offered music on the Flentrop organ from Suites by G.F. Handel, Louis-Nicholas Clerambault, and Florence Price.

Treasures of the Cathedral: Everett DuPen

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 7, 2021 with 3 Comments

Have you ever noticed the wood carvings located just as you enter Bloedel Hall from the west doors of the building? For the small prayer card included in this year's stewardship mailing, the stewardship committee selected a detail from this work, depicting Jesus telling his disciples to cast their nets on the other side of their boat, as recounted in the Gospel of John, chapter 21. (Click the photo to enlarge.) The entire work, titled Christ the Good Shepherd, is the work of sculptor Everett DuPen (1912–2005).

DuPen taught for many years at the University of Washington, and his work can be be seen in public installations throughout the Seattle area, notably the Fountain of Creation, located at Seattle Center between the Arena and the Northwest Rooms (now the KEXP studios), the carved walnut screens at the entrance of Seattle Municipal Tower, and the fountain at the Pritchard Building at the state capital in Olympia.

Get to Know the Service Corps!

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 6, 2021 with No Comments

Meet Lindsay!! Lindsay will be spending her service year working for Earth Ministry/Washington Interfaith Power & Light 🌎🌍🌏:

Hi there! My name is Lindsay Bell and I’m so excited for my year in Seattle Service Corps! A little bit about me...

I was born in England, but spent pretty much my whole life in Northern Virginia, just outside DC. I am from a family of 5; I’m the middle child with one older sister and one younger brother.

I went to school in San Diego at UCSD and studied public health (after changing majors 4 times— I’d have 5 majors if I could!). I enjoy playing volleyball, reading, eating good food, hiking, and hanging out with my dog Goose.

Some random things I love: moss, mountains, English breakfast tea, goats, the smell of fall, and a good used bookstore. I’ve been on a bit of an adventure for the past five months, working on organic farms in Ireland and Maine, and visiting as many national parks as possible on a road trip across the country. It’s been a lot of fun, but I’m excited to get back to work and start learning and building fellowship here in Seattle!

Meet Talley! Talley will be spending her year working for both Edible Hope and Seeds of Peace:

Hi y’all, my name is Talley. I’ve lived all over the southeast and Midwest but consider myself an Appalachian woman and call western NC home.

I’m a cradle Episcopalian and a priest’s kid, having been an acolyte, choir member, helped in the nursery, been to happening, and many other youth events and camps.

In 2017, I graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Global Studies, concentration in Peace, Conflict, and Human Rights Studies, and minors in Chinese (Mandarin) and German.

Pre-COVID, I was participating in the Episcopal Church’s international young adult service corps program (YASC) stationed in the Northern Philippines. I was evacuated in March 2020 and have been working as a parish administrator along with 3 other jobs during COVID. I’m excited to get to Seattle and experience city life again- i.e. food options!

Meet Emily! Emily is spending her year working at Mercy Housing Northwest:

Hello, I'm Emily! I was born and raised in the southwest as a third generation Arizonan. I recently graduated from Northern Arizona University with a B.A. in English and Comparative Religion and with a minor in Museum Studies.

My time in college was spent developing a passion for cultural heritage work through jobs at my university’s library and archives, as well as an internship at its art museum. I was also an active member at LCM | Canterbury, NAU’s Episcopal and Lutheran Campus Ministry, where I was received into the church just this past May, and discovered the Episcopal Service Corps for the first time.

In my free time, I can always be found with a book in hand or perusing local thrift shops looking for yet another new jacket. I'm looking forward to developing community with my fellow corps members and adjusting to the Seattle weather!

Say hello to Julia! Julia is spending her year working with Mission to Seafarers:

Hello! My name is Julia, and I grew up mostly in Providence, Rhode Island, although I spent a couple years in Vancouver, BC as a kid.

I attended Tufts University and studied English and Computer Science, and for the last few years I have been working at a software company in the Boston area. After discerning a career change, I am excited to move back to the beautiful northwest and spend the year with the Seattle Service Corps!

In my free time, you can often find me outdoors, or in the kitchen; I am looking forward this year to exploring Seattle via bike and finding some good hiking spots, and also sharing the results of my various cooking and baking experiments with new housemates. I also love making music, and I hope to find an outlet to play music with other people in Seattle, whether a worship band or a bluegrass jam group.

I look forward to connecting with the Saint Mark's community soon and getting involved in the life of the church!

Meet Sophia! This year Sophia will be working with Northwest Immigrant Rights Project:

Hi all! My name is Sophia Greenberg and I use she/her pronouns. I’m coming to Seattle by way of unceded Munsee Lenape land in Rockland County, NY.

I just finished my bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and Psychology from Wellesley College in Massachusetts and I hope to end up in law school after my year with SSC with the ultimate goal of a career in public interest law.

In my free time I enjoy playing lots and lots of board games, making playlists for my loved ones on Spotify, listening to all kinds of podcasts, and walking/hiking/meandering. I also love spending time with young people, which keeps me up to date with the latest news in important subjects like Cocomelon, Fortnite, and Tiktok trends.

One of the best things I’ve done recently is teaching a Lego-based Sunday School class! I’m most looking forward to being so close to the mountains and the coast at the same time, enjoying the PNW weather, drinking lots of coffee, becoming a Kraken and Sounders fan, and sharing in worship and fellowship with everyone at Saint Mark's.

Say hello to Laura! She is spending her year working at Real Change News:

I am excited to go from the shores of Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River to the Pacific Northwest.

I am joining Seattle Service Corps after graduating from Valparaiso University in Valparaiso, Indiana. I grew up in the land of Lincoln and lived in Rockford, Illinois and Edwardsville, Illinois (near St. Louis).

As a person who majored in history and minored in sociology and communication, I am looking forward to having my time in Seattle be a part of my personal context. When not being surrounded by cornfields, I enjoy hiking, photography, and coffee shops.

Connections: The American Friends of the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on October 1, 2021 with No Comments

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 10:10-10:50 A.M., in person in Bloedel Hall or via Zoom

Hosted by the Mideast Focus Ministry, Saint Mark's welcomes John Lent, Executive Director of American Friends of the Diocese of Jerusalem, for a conversation about the work of AFEDJ in the West Bank and Gaza and an up-close assessment of the current situation in Israel-Palestine and the broader region. The Cathedral and Diocese have long been supporters of AFEDJ; currently Bishop Rickel serves as chair of the board, so we are particularly grateful for this opportunity to reconnect with this important partner.

John is an experienced non-profit, education and corporate leader. He started his career as a teacher and worked in educational publishing for many years in New York City. He served as Executive Director of New Leaders, a national non-profit that recruits and trains school leaders in partnership with many of the largest urban school districts in the country. Before joining AFEDJ, John was COO of an educational technology company in New York. John is active in his Episcopal parish, where he has served as vestry member, warden, member of the rector search committee, Sunday school teacher, chair of the discernment committee and stewardship committee chair. Watch a brief video with John below.

AFEDJ is a nonpolitical, nonsectarian 501(c) (3) organization dedicated to transforming lives of the vulnerable and displaced in the Middle East through support of the schools, hospitals, and centers for children with disabilities that are owned and operated by the Episcopal Diocese of Jerusalem in Palestine, Jordan, Israel, Syria and Lebanon. Since 1988, AFEDJ donors have contributed more than $30 million to the Diocese of Jerusalem’s humanitarian institutions. Learn more at www.afedj.org.

Come to Bloedel Hall between the 9 and 11 a.m. services to watch the discussion, or join using this Zoom link.

Wisdom School 21/22 Opening Plenary: A Spirituality of Desire

by Saint Mark's Cathedral on September 30, 2021 with No Comments

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2021, 6:45 P.M.–8:15 P.M., in person in Bloedel Hall and via Zoom.

Dean Thomason introduces the theme for The Wisdom School at Saint Mark's 21/22 program year.

Desire is often understood as existing in the realm of carnal experience, and is therefore to be denied or rejected. But mystics know a deeper truth—that desire is at the core of our spiritual awareness and informs all that we do and are, in response to God’s desire for us, or alternatively, as a shadow that hinders that union through false attachments. Dean Steve Thomason will draw on art, poetry, science, and theology, including writings of the mystics, exploring desire as a deeply-seated (and perhaps divinely hard-wired) spiritual gift that enables us to engage the Other in life-giving union while also reflecting on ways we fall prey to false attachments meant to fill the spiritual whole that only God can fill. No fee. In-person attendees must be vaccinated.

Click here to download the Powerpoint slides from this presentation.

References related to this presentation include:

Coakley, Sarah. The New Asceticism: Sexuality, Gender, and the Quest for God. Bloomsbury, 2015
Gudorf, Christine. Body, Sex, and Pleasure: Reconstructing Christian Sexual Ethics. Pilgrim Press, 1994.
Guenther, Margaret. The Practice of Prayer. Cowley, 1998
May, Gerald. Will and Spirit: A Contemplative Psychology. HarperOne, 1987.

JOIN US December 12 at 2 p.m. for a one-hour storytelling fundraiser that showcases how Corps members continue to “Blossom Abundantly” in SSC.

View a complete video of the forum below.

Download the presentation slides here (pdf).

Download the litany prayed during the forum here (pdf).

Please note: For the sake of safety, pre-registration is required to attend this year's "O" Antiphons liturgy, and proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID test* must be presented. More information about this policy may be read at saintmarks.org/advent

Join using this Zoom link.

Please Note

saintmarks.org/advent

Bishop Rickel to Make His Triennial Visitation

Kuhon Raigo-zu IV for organ -- a meditation on Paradise and The Pure Land, by Hina Sakamoto

UPDATE: The Episcopal Church's Creation Care office has published a piece by Dr. Lisa Graumlich titled COP26 — What to watch for? What to pray for?.

Attend Virtual COP26 Public Events

Episcopal Climate Advocacy at the UN: COP26 Kick-Off with the Presiding Bishop’s Delegation

Liturgy for Planetary Crisis: Episcopal Worship Service during COP26

COP26 Closing Event: Report Back from the Presiding Bishop’s Delegation

About the composer

A Message from Dean Thomason

A Message from Linzi Stahlecker

In addition to the audio recording and printed text available here, Linzi's sermon begins at 25:30 in the following video.

Post-Compline Organ Music: A favorite Seattle late-night musical offering, now offered monthly

Upcoming Recitalists:

2026

Past Recitalists:

2025:

2024:

2023:

2022

2021