Easter Sunday, and looking ahead

A joyful and musical Easter Mass at St. Bartholomew's today! The Girls' Choir sang beautifully, though their numbers were reduced a bit because some families were away for Spring Break. Tenor Timothy Keller sang a solo anthem titled "God is My Shepherd." And our Rector's wife Josephine played the organ (our regular organist, Kathy, is in the hospital), as she does when the Girls' Choir sings.

I forgot to ask about the 6 AM Sunrise Service and the continental breakfast afterward, due in part to the very busy Parish Hall after the service. I think we had about 50% more communicants than usual at the 10 AM service today, including a number of visitors.

At least I had the presence of mind to arrange to discuss the April 30th service with Fr. Daniel this week. Next Sunday morning I'll be flying to the D.C. area (thus missing A.J.'s baptism) and returning (Deo volunte and the Delta pilots don't go on strike) Friday night, with a little time to unwind before leading Morning Prayer on Sunday the 30th.

Morning Prayer... both Deacon Ed and Fr. Daniel will be away that Sunday. Josephine is pursuing her doctorate in music and for that program she will be giving the fourth of five piano recitals at UC Santa Barbara. She's been playing at various venues locally in preparation; Thursday she performed at Kathy's hospital, though Kathy was unable to come down to hear her.

In any event, Fr. Daniel had noted we'll be singing Morning Prayer. But I think it will be a cappella, with Josephine away and Kathy out of commission for the organ. I hope we have some strong voices...

(Hopefully Ranjit will be able to come and read the lessons.)