Palm Sunday Gregorian Vespers

For the last several years, a regular part of our Lenten observation has been the Palm Sunday Gregorian Vespers service at the Basilica by The Rose Ensemble. This year's service will be next Sunday, April 9, starting at 3:00 p.m. Gregorian chant, whether in Latin or English, is part of the Church's sublime musical heritage, and there are few groups anywhere who do it better than The Rose Ensemble.

The Rose Ensemble is one of the finest early-music groups in classical music today. In addition to serving as the resident artist group of the Basilica (where they perform the Gregorian Vespers service six times per year), they perform numerous concerts around the area, and their recordings can be heard on classical music stations throughout the country. Next month the group will stage Il Poverello: Celebrating the Life and Deeds of St. Francis of Assisi, and you can check out their site for more information on dates and locations.

Msgr. Richard Schuler of St. Agnes has often said that music written for the glory of God can open a door, however brief, that provides us a glimpse of Heaven. The pinnacle of this sacred music can be found in the beauty and simplicity of Gregorian chant, and an excellent way to experience this holiness is through this Vespers service. If you have an hour, consider coming down to the Basilica to sanctify your Palm Sunday and experience the tranquility of this simple service. It is the ideal way to start your Holy Week.