What comes after completing a big project? Some big celebrations, of course!

Listed at below are the first round of special services, events and concerts that will commemorate the completion of the Rise, O Church sanctuary renewal and new organ installation project. More events will be added to this list as scheduling is finalized.

All are welcome to attend any of these events. Keep this schedule handy to know what’s coming up next. We look forward to seeing you here.

Vettern College Choir, Sunday, April 16, 3 p.m., college choral singers from Sweden. Gloria Dei has hosted them several times in the past and they always bring a varied choral program with traditional choral literature, Scandinavian folk tunes, contemporary choral music and often something from ABBA. They are a sweet group of young people and a delight to host! All are welcome for this festive concert event. Bring a guest!

Inaugural Organ Recital and Dedication, Sunday, April 23, 4 p.m., featuring Gloria Dei Director of Music Tim Strand. The recital will showcase our new 57-rank Letourneau/Casavant organ and will include music of Bach, Durufle and Vierne. Also featured will be two new commissions. One is a five movement work on “Rise, O Church, like Christ Arisen” by David Cherwien. The text of this hymn, which was used as the theme of our campaign, was written by Susan Palo Cherwien and the tune is by Timothy Strand. The other commission will be a setting of the Swedish tune, “The Earth Adorned” by Robert Buckley Farlee for soprano saxophone and organ. A festive reception will follow the recital!

Summer Noon Organ Concert Series, June 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 at noon each Friday.