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St. Stephen’s, West Vancouver began the festive Christmas season with a service of lessons and carols on December 4, Advent II which featured baritone, Jason Cook and flautist, Nancy Rieken. That afternoon the congregation was delighted to return to church for Jazz Vespers. Worship, led by rector, the Reverend Ken Vinal who welcomed the sextet Original Blend. This group has performed and led music in worship frequently around the diocese, particularly the North Shore. The band is led by the Archdeacon of Capilano and Rector of St. Agnes’ in North Vancouver’s Grand Boulevard neighbourhood, the Venerable Stephen Muir, who plays drums. Also in the band are Laura Iwan on trumpet; Roly Pretty on tenor sax and vocals; Mike Winterbottom on alto sax’ Roy Gould, guitar; Fiona Narod, piano; bass, Amy Lewis. The style of music varied from standards and Latin American numbers to show tunes including the standard “Almost Like being in Love” from the 1947 musical, Brigadoon, made even more famous by Nat King Cole. 

Unfortunately, because of the snow, the widely anticipated concert by the St. Stephen’s Community Singers under the direction of Dr. Annabelle Paetsch had to be cancelled. Fortunately, the weather eventually improved, and the Christmas Eve Celebration of Holy Communion was able to go ahead. This service was enriched by the sensitive violin accompaniments by John Lang. The post Communion solo was performed by soprano Setayesh Nourollahi singing “O Holy Night”. St. Stephens' is fortunate to have the talents of these young people to enrich the liturgies.

On Sunday, January 8, St. Stephen’s, West Vancouver recognized the celebration of Jesus’s baptism with a congregational Renewal of Baptism Vows. The service also became one of thanksgiving and appreciation as the generous donor of her harpsichord, Sharon West, was present and acknowledged. Dr. Annabelle Paetsch, Minister of Music, on the harpsichord, accompanied recorder player, Kees van den Doel, to perform several Bach Sonatas during the service. Rector, the Reverend Ken Vinal linked the renewal of baptismal vows, the generosity of Sharon West, and the beauty of the music in his sermon, an homily which included challenges for all. 

 St. Stephen’s Community Singers begins another season of choral music on January 12. This choir is open to all and rehearsals are late in the afternoon at the church at 22nd and Gordon in West Van.

IMAGES

  • Violinist, John Lang accompanied by Annabelle Paetsch  Photo John Ruddick
  • Soprano, Setayesh Nourollahi accompanied by Annabelle Paetsch Photo John Ruddick
  • Orignal Blend  Photo Valerie Barrett
  • Annabelle Paetsch and Kees van den Doel Photo John Ruddick

 

Sea To Sky
St. Stephens, West Vancouver