EVENSONG at CANTERBURY CATHEDRAL
On the balmy summer evening of 26th July, a gentle warmth lingered in the air as people gathered in the heart of Canterbury. Among the many who assembled were around sixty Freemasons from the Province of East Kent, each drawn to the city’s ancient spiritual centre: the awe-inspiring Canterbury Cathedral. With a history stretching back 1,400 years, this magnificent edifice never fails to humble and inspire those who walk through its doors.
Before the Evensong for the 8th Sunday after Trinity began, a special and private moment unfolded. With the spirit of generosity that is indicative of all Freemasons, the Provincial Grand Master, Neil Hamilton Johnstone, presented a donation to the Dean of the Cathedral, the Very Reverend Dr David Monteith. It was a gesture that spoke volumes of the enduring partnership between the Freemasons and this iconic place of worship.
With the presentation concluded, at 17:20pm and with an air of quiet dignity, Worshipful Brother Gerry Stuppple guided the Provincial Grand Master and his guests to their seats. Anticipation was building when at half past five, the majestic Cathedral organ filled the sacred space with sonorous music that accompanied the choir and clergy as they processed into the Quire. The Dean then offered a warm welcome to the congregation, expressing particular pleasure at seeing so many Freemasons in attendance. His words underscored a proud tradition because for very many years, Freemasons of the Province of East Kent have supported Canterbury Cathedral helping to preserve this national treasure by funding vital repairs and nurturing the craft of apprentice stonemasons.
The highlight of the service was the breathtaking performance by the Vasari Singers, one of Britain’s most renowned chamber choirs. Their voices, pure and crystalline, resonated through the ancient stone moving listeners to silent awe. Their rendition of the Magnificat especially captivated all present by weaving a tapestry of sound that seemed to lift the spirit of the congregation.
The first reading was movingly given by Second Provincial Grand Principal, Excellent Companion Graham Wyles, and with further readings punctuated by beautiful music, the service continued with eloquence and grace.
As the service drew to a close, the collection reflected the generosity of all those present. After which, the choir and clergy processed out to the triumphant strains of the Organ Voluntary, a performance so powerful, the reverberations could be felt deep within every chest. The phrase “pulling out all the stops” came vividly to life, as the organist brought the evening to an exhilarating finale.
This Evensong was more than a service, it was a testament to community, tradition, and the enduring commitment of the Province of East Kent to the Cathedral. The support of the Province continues to help sustain this magnificent building, ensuring that the harmonious notes of Evensong will echo around its hallowed stone walls for centuries to come.
Article by D Lindas
