On Sunday, April 5, “The Passion According to St. John” was presented in The Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus on the Concordia Seminary campus, marking the conclusion of the sixth season for the “Bach at the Sem” series. The 2 1/2 hour presentation of the arrest, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus Christ, as these events are recorded in the Gospel According to St. John, was received with great appreciation by the 574 who were in attendance. In fact, “The Passion According to St. John” is the event in the 1997-98 “Bach at the Sem” series which drew the largest attendance.
The “Bach at the Sem” series celebrates the close relationship between Johann Sebastian Bach and the church. His contatas and other sacred works for voices and instruments were meant to be heard and used in worship. The instrumentalists and singers of the American Kantorei, under the direction of Rev. Robert Bergt, are carefully chosen and prepared to give full artistic expression to this unique combination. The Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus, on the Concordia Seminary campus, provides a fitting place to experience the biblical message presented through this excellent music.
“The ‘Bach at the Sem’ series has been a real blessing for the Concordia Seminary community and many more in the greater St. Louis area,” remarked Rev. Glen Thomas, Vice President for Seminary Relations at Concordia Seminary. “We are most appreciative of the untiring work and dedication exhibited by Rev. Bergt and the members of the American Kantorei as they bring to life the powerful and moving works of Bach. We look forward to the 1998-99 season.”
More information concerning the “Bach at the Sem” series, as well as the opportunity to be added to the mailing list, may be obtained by writing: Bach at the Sem, Concordia Seminary, 801 DeMun Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63105 or by calling: 314/505-7370.