Episcopal Press and News
Christmas Celebrations at Washington Cathedral
Diocesan Press Service. December 29, 1975 [75460]
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Children's Celebration at 4 pm on Christmas Eve marked the beginning of special services at Washington Cathedral this joyous season. A prelude of seasonal songs was presented by Vigo and Lucy, the popular area performers, at 3:30 pm. Processions of richly garbed kings, humble shepherds and fantastic manger animals created the tableau of the Christmas story at the creche. Liturgical clowns presented the gift of laughter for the Children's Celebration and there was congregational carol singing. Children brought bells, cymbals, triangles and other small percussion instruments so that they could participate in the celebration.
The Festival of the Nativity at 10 pm Christmas Eve offered the premiere of a mass for choir, brass and organ by Richard Dirksen, cathedral composer-in-residence. Dean Francis B. Sayre Jr. was the preacher for the service and Bishop Creighton was the celebrant. The service was based on the liturgy of St. John Chrysostom and "Rite II" in modern English of the Episcopal Church. Music by Williams, Hynson and de Victoria was played by Oliver Douberly, Fellow in Church Music and Douglas R. Major, assistant organist and choirmaster.
As the people gathered for the 10 pm Festival service, the Cathedral Ringing Society rang changes from the Gloria in Excelsis Tower under the direction of Rick Dirksen, bellmaster.
The Christmas day service at 10 am was carried nationwide by NBC-TV. The eucharist was celebrated by Dean Francis B. Sayre Jr. using the liturgy of the Second Trial Studies Service. The Rt. Rev. William F. Creighton, Bishop of Washington gave the
Christmas message. The Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys under the direction of Dr. Paul Calloway sang at all Christmas services.
Christmas Day music included works of Brahms, Warlock, Williams and special anthems and brass ensemble by Richard Dirksen.
Christmas Festival activities continued through December 31 with chamber music, drama and chorale presentations.
