"Look!" exclaimed one voice. "What do you see?" I asked. "Real candles!" Standing in the Quire of York Minster Cathedral as we were about to begin rehearsal for Evensong, my eye was directed to the candlelit sconces that graced the choir stalls at measured intervals. In one of England's largest Gothic cathedrals, this relatively small detail had enormous impact. Rather than the small electric lamp stands so often found in other cathedral quires, the candlelit sconces at York cast a halo of light that shimmered with holiness and enveloped all in a glow of warmth and hospitality.
Our stay at York Minster was rich and full. In no time, the musicians of Christ Church Cathedral commanded the space with their signature warmth and and exquisite skill. Their gifts were beautifully matched with those of our host cathedral. The dean, clergy, vergers and countless volunteers of York Minister welcomed us each day and effortlessly folded us into the life and leadership of worship as if it were our home.
Each day, curious tourists were drawn to the Quire during our rehearsals and found themselves staying long past their intended departure so that they could attend Evensong. Day by day the numbers grew of those who said that they attended worship on our first day and were compelled to return to hear this lovely American choir. Faithful worshippers from across the world introduced themselves as we joyfully greeted familiar faces from Christ Church Cathedral who had arranged their summer travel to coincide with our residency at York. Choir members were often recognized throughout the town, thanked for their leadership of worship and cheered along their way.
Each night, as we gathered for our night prayers the choristers gave thanks for the gifts of the day and shared aloud where they had seen God. The kindnesses shown to us throughout the day did not go unnoticed. When spoken aloud, they seemed to inspire the choristers to also notice the many small acts of kindness offered by their fellow choristers, choir men and faithful chaperones. Their words of gratitude kindled a warmth not unlike the candlelit sconces of the York Minister Quire, and a sense of belonging grew.
Jesus said that the kingdom of God is like the smallest of seeds; yet when sown in the ground, it grows into greatest of trees where the birds of the air can make nests in its branches.
-Mark 4:30-32; Luke
Dean Carol Wade
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