Music for Lent-4-B (Mar 26) Laetare

Prelude:           -silence-
Processional Hymn: 239: The Glory Of These Forty Days
Penitential Rite:  Missa XI (orbis factor): chant
Gloria:            -none-during-Lent-
Readings:          512
Offertory:         (11) (sheet) God So Loved the World: Stainer
Acclamations:      185: Sanctus: chant
                   Missa XI (orbis factor): chant
Agnus Dei:         Missa XI (orbis factor): chant
Communion Hymn:    353: What Wondrous Love Is This
Final Hymn:        423: Lift High The Cross
Postlude:          -silence-

Music Notes:


We have reached the mid-point of our Season of Lent,
having completed three weeks, with three weeks remaining.
Today is "Laetare Sunday", so named from the opening word
of the Introit (Isaiah 66:10-11 and Psalm 121:1):
"Laetare Jerusalem (Rejoice Jerusalem)". The special
signs of joy (flowers, rose vestments, organ) permitted this
day encourage us in our course through this season of penance.


Sir John Stainer (1840-1901), born in London England,
lost an eye in a childhood accident but persevered in a
successful musical career. Chorister (1848-) at St Paul
Cathedral, organist at St Benet and St Paul (Upper Thames
Street, 1855-), St Michael College (Tenbury Wells, 1856-),
Christ Church (Oxford, 1859-), Magdalen College (1860-),
St Paul Cathedral (London, 1872-88) reforming the musical
service and increasing the number of musicians and expanding
the repertory. Founded the Oxford Philharmonic Society;
knighted (1888) by Queen Victoria; resigned from St Paul's
because of failing eyesight; Professor of Music (Oxford, 1889-).
A pioneer in the world of English musicology, noted collector
of music especially 18c English songbooks; made editions of
music (1901) of composers pre-dating Palestrina and Tallis.
Wrote over 230 services for St Paul's choir as well as
oratorios, anthems, hymns and cantatas; "The Crucifixion (1887)"
remains one of his best known works.