SC Connecticut News

The Yale Institute of Sacred Music will be hosting an ecumenical hymn festival in celebration of its 50th anniversary on Sunday, May 5 at Woolsey Hall. The event will feature a community choir of 300 voices singing hymns themed around "All Creation Sings," emphasizing the diversity of creation and our responsibility to care for it. Attendees will have the opportunity to join in singing beloved hymns such as Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, Just as I am, and All Creatures of our God and King.

Leading the choir will be Dr. Felicia Barber, with the Yale Camerata at its core. Accompanying the choir will be Dr. Nathaniel Gumbs and Dr. Bruce Neswick on the Newberry Organ, Dr. John Paul McGee on keyboards, as well as brass, percussion, guitars, and a gospel ensemble.

Special guest preachers at the festival will include the Rev. Dr. James Forbes and the Rev. Dr. Barbara Brown Taylor. Dr. Forbes, the president of Healing of the Nations Ministries and senior minister emeritus of The Riverside Church in New York City, is a renowned figure in the field of preaching and activism. Dr. Forbes has been recognized as one of America's greatest Black preachers and is a prolific author and speaker.

Dr. Barbara Brown Taylor, a New York Times bestselling author known for works such as "An Altar in the World" and "Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others," will also share her insights at the festival. With a diverse background that includes teaching world religions and caring for the land on her farm in the Appalachians, Dr. Taylor brings a wealth of experience and wisdom to the event.

The hymn festival is open to all and free of charge, providing an opportunity for the community to come together in celebration and reflection. For those unable to attend in person, a livestream link will be available to enjoy the event remotely.