Jazz Vespers in Ogden: A Community Ritual

by Caril Jennings — long-time jazz fan

Elim Lutheran Church in Ogden | elimlutheran.org

(Surprise! I’m more than just theatre!)

This Sunday, May 17, at 6 p.m., Jazz Vespers presents jazz trio Wood, Wind, and Fire’s led by Herschel Bullen at Elim Lutheran Church.

Just in case you don’t know about this, I’ll explain a few things following this disclaimer. 

First of all, I’m not a member of any congregation other than my Ogden and Facebook community. 

Second, I don’t go to public events very often because of my chemo-induced immunodeficiency. I wear a mask when I do go out. 

My experience at Jazz Vespers is very personal and contemplative. I love being so close to the performers. I love the light through the stained glass. I love the intimacy of the vaulted chapel. I love the acceptance of everyone in the room: we are gathered here together to hear our favorite music! So, here’s what I think you might like to know.

Jazz Vespers 101

Lutheran Pastor John Garcia Gensel loved jazz. He realized that jazz musicians who played until the wee hours of the morn weren’t likely to get up and attend Sunday morning church services. His solution? Offer an additional service at 5 p.m. in October 1965. He brought jazz with him when he was called to St. Peter's Lutheran Church in New York City in 1966, and it became a founding beacon to other communities around the world. That’s the story and I’m stickin’ to it.

Several years ago the jazz aficionados at Elim Lutheran began hosting them in Ogden. I don’t think I’ve missed a single one. It is not often you get to sit in a beautiful little architectural gem while contemplating the music instead of listening to bar talk or sitting in an auditorium.

What to expect (besides jazz):

All are welcome. You will be offered a printed program with the order of music and appropriately soothing Old or New Testament verse. There is a Call and Response. Joining in is not compulsory; during the program you will be asked to make friends with the people sitting around you, not in “fellowship” but in community. Shake hands if you want but at least say “hi.” Later, there is an offering passed but the collected funds will pay for the next vesper musicians. Contribute if you want. You will be invited for refreshments in the dining hall immediately following. Inside the printed program is a photo of Gensel and The Duke. For the full story and beautiful photos: saintpeters.org/jazz60

About the church itself: 

1888 Swedish immigrants met in a parlor at Five Point. They purchased the lot on 23rd and Jefferson and formally organized December 8, 1889. A beautiful tour of Elim Lutheran and it’s history can be found at webercountyheritagefoundation.com/ogden-lutheran-church.

Jazz Vespers is held monthly at Elim Lutheran Church, 575 East 23rd St.