On Good Friday, April 18, at 8 p.m., the Church of St. Andrew will present “Meditations on the Passion,” a powerful musical reflection that invites listeners to experience the Passion of Christ through a fresh and deeply human lens.
This moving performance blends traditional themes with contemporary insights and draws audiences from across New England, including Boston and beyond.
Rev. Clyde Elledge, rector of St. Andrew’s, described composer Bob Franke’s work as “… the story of the Passion, yet (it) shines a light on it from the perspective of a person living in this modern era.”
“A collage of sound … invites us to step between the verses of scripture to reflect on the feelings of the centurion at the foot of the cross,” Elledge said. “This is art, but it is also a deeply spiritual exploration.”
Franke, celebrated for his spiritually generous songs and poignant storytelling, has dedicated over five decades to crafting music that touches the heart of human experience.
Described by Tom Paxton as a blend of “Emerson, Thoreau, Mark Twain and Buddy Holly,” Franke’s music has been recorded by artists such as Peter, June Tabor and Paul and Mary. His powerful songwriting draws from real-life lessons and has touched audiences in concert halls, coffeehouses and churches across North America and beyond.
Franke himself describes the work, first performed in 1980, as “not necessarily about being a Christian.”
“It’s about being human in the presence of the Divine, and about the presence of Redemption in the midst of the most horrific and tragic dimensions of the human condition,” Franke said.
This universal perspective draws participants and listeners alike, regardless of their faith traditions.
“Meditations on the Passion” offers a rich mosaic of musical styles, blending solemn reflection with moments of lightness, warmth and even humor. With renowned soloists and musicians, a chorus of voices and a range of musical genres, this performance invites the audience on a journey that is both personal and communal.
In addition to the St. Andrew’s choir, this year’s musicians include Howard Bursen, Sally Rogers, William Bueno, Joshua Levin-Epstein, Ellen (Buffy) Groves, Chelsea Haynes and Kshitij Rawal. Christiana Goslin Bueno is the music director.
Elledge added, “Whether you seek spiritual reflection, artistic inspiration or simply a moving evening of music by talented musicians, ‘Meditations on the Passion’ is a performance not to be missed. Audience members will no doubt reflect, remember and find hope together.”
