Epiphany was celebrated early at First Lutheran Church, thanks to the voices and instruments of the Kantorei of Concordia Theological Seminary-Fort Wayne. The Kantorei led a choral evening prayer service on the 10th day of Christmas – 2 days before Epiphany – which featured lessons, meditations and carols pertinent to the Advent, Christmas and Epiphany seasons. The music ranged from familiar seasonal classics like “Lo, How a Rose”, intricate works by Bach and Tallis, four works specifically comissioned for the Kantorei and congregational participation in 17th century hymns. These are just a sampling of the many forays into the broad and comforting musical/theological landscape covered that night.
The Kantorei is a 16 voice choir of men studying for to be pastors and are directed (and were founded) by Kantor Richard Resch and accompanied by Associate Kantor Kevin Hildebrand. Reverand Randall P. Wurschmidt offered meditations that built on the Scripture readings and choral responses.
For more information on the Katorei, please follow this link to an interview with Kantor Resch.
The Kantorei (plus one local guest- far left) practice for the next stop on their tour in Connecticut. The group was in the midst of an eight city tour across the northeast.
Kantor Richard Resch, Seminarian Jon Franson and Pastor Ingo Dutzmann share a laugh as another Kantorei member organizes music for a rehearsal.
What a wonderful and inspiring evening!