Washington National Cathedral, standing majestically in the northwest region of the capital, was an amazing building, wonderful to behold. One couldn’t help feeling a little daunted when going to visit the Cathedral (or “casing the joint” as one verger put it). A small group attended Eucharist on the first morning in Washington to join a congregation size of 700, described by the very same verger as “sparse”.
Whilst there was plenty of opportunity to see the sights of Washington and become more informed about American history, certainly the highlight of the week for me was the quality of the music making. With a reputation to establish, the Choir rose to the challenge of filling the vast building with a beautiful choral sound and the local people were impressed and enthused. An embodiment of this (very pleasing to note) was that, as the week progressed, the congregation size grew steadily bigger. The high standard of music owed a great deal to Mick’s musical talent and Ian’s superb mastership of the Cathedral organ, as well as the contributions from singers themselves.
I finish my short reflection of a wonderful time in Washington by sharing with you the spiritually serene meditation that ended each weekday evensong at the Cathedral:
O Lord, support us all the day long,
until the shadows lengthen,
and the evening comes,
and the busy world is hushed,
and the fever of life is over,
and our work is done.
Then in your mercy,
grant us a safe lodging and a holy rest,
and peace at the last.
Amen.