Review

The first City Vespers gathered people for a new worship adventure in Skinner Chapel as day was turning toward twilight. We loved it. Before the service began, the piano created an environment that was both relaxed and inviting. The candles added warmth. The late-gothic space lent itself beautifully to the experience.

After singing a few songs, many people were invited to name areas of celebration and concern.

A part of each City Vespers will focus on some specific area of Holyoke. This first week, we talked and prayed for all the people at Dean Technical High School, a wonderful school that offers students a way to enter life with substantial skills and education.

A text from the Gospel of John gave rise to comment by some. In it, Jesus was telling people that they could do everything he could do, and even more. Did that mean that people who live like Jesus can heal people? Or does it mean that all the followers working together can accomplish great things? We could have talked longer, but we also want to keep this service between 30 and 45 minutes.

We know that the service will evolve and change. But already we see its character emerging. We suspect that some will find this to be a "thin place" for their souls to encounter the Holy. The saying is true: "Whoever you are, and where ever you are on life's journey, you are welcome here."

Now, our focus is on Sunday Morning with it's three baptisms! That's a first for us!