Choral Evensong takes place at Christ Church Cathedral every Sunday at 4pm and lasts about 45 minutes. This meditative act of devotion is almost entirely sung by the choir, open to people of all faiths and none, and free of charge.
On Sunday, October 4th during Evensong, we will rededicate our magnificent Hellmuth Wolff organ following the completion of restoration work this summer. We will give thanks and praise to all those who generously supported this project, and for the worship, learning and connection that this instrument makes possible. Also during Evensong, we will be offering the world premiere of a newly-commissioned work for choir and organ by acclaimed British composer David Bednall.
A tribute to Canon Michael Gormley
As part of the rededication festivities for our refurbished Hellmuth Wolff organ, it’s fitting that we pay tribute to the individual who championed its commissioning, over two decades ago.
Canon Michael Gormley spent more than thirty years as Director of Music at this Cathedral. He did much to establish it as a musical centre for both the diocese and the city: founding choirs, forming partnerships, organizing concert series and festivals, inviting local and visiting artists, welcoming audiences to many memorable performances – in addition to the regular weekly and seasonal round of liturgical music offerings.
Michael advocated eloquently for the new organ, led the international search for the best person to design it, and worked closely with the team who built it. He was supported by a team of tireless volunteers who helped make his dream a reality, with the aid of generous donors from across the city and beyond.
It’s not surprising, then, that many of those who contributed to the current organ renewal project expressed their wish that the Cathedral community tangibly and permanently record its thanksgiving for Michael’s musical ministry among us – and in particular for the continuing gift of this magnificent instrument. During today's service of Choral Evensong, we will unveil a plaque here in the cathedral, honouring Canon Michael Gormley and his remarakble impact on this community.