Rosedale Presbyterian Church's annual Good Friday Choral Meditation combines the beauty of music, scripture and preaching to observe the extraordinary story that brings Jesus' ministry to a sudden and violent end.  Yet, that solemn observation is also always kept in the knowledge that Jesus' ministry was not over, and that his ordeal and sacrifice would be transformed through his resurrection, and God's confirmed salvation project.  

The RPC Choir and Soloists' offerings, joined this year by invited choristers and guest conductor Robin Davis, are of Easter anthems: Christ lag in Todesbanden (Christ lay in death's bonds) - words by Martin Luther (1483-1546), music by 18th century composer Johann Pachelbel (1653-1706) and Rejoice in the Lamb, words by Christopher Smart (1722-1771) and music by 20th century composer Benjamin Britten.  Breaking with some Good Friday traditions both of these compositions include Easter Alleluias - but these alleluias are notably muted musically by both composers across their centuries.  Luther wrote about us - Christopher Smart wrote about him - and to our thinking, we find one of the central themes of this holiest of stories - it is a story for our church, and yet it is also a story for each of us.

Rev Daniel Cho's sermon, "The Cross, Gateway to Grace" suggests that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross invites us to embrace the healing power of divine grace, fostering a journey of introspection and rebirth. It also  extends the message of selfless love to inspire collective healing, reconciliation, and social justice. Good Friday is a timeless reminder of the hope and possibility of renewing both hearts and societies alike.

"Muted Alleluias," Rosedale Presbyterian Church's annual Good Friday Choral Meditation unfolds Friday April 18th beginning at 10:30am, and will last shortly over one hour.  As with all RPC services, there is no admission charge, but donations are welcome.

For more information contact the church office, Office@rpcc.ca, or call 416-921-1931.

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