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Question about Evensong at St Paul

Posted by on

Hi There,

We are going to be in London for a few short days. On the 11th of June my plan is as follows:

  • Tower of London
  • Tower Bridge (photo stop)
  • Borough market for lunch

We should be done by 3-4pm and was wondering if we can do the much talked about evensong at St Paul Cathedral. I understand that:
- it's free
- we'll not be able to tour inside but atleast get to sit inside and marvel at the immense beauty

Now here's my question: I checked the website and on most days it says the Choral Evensong but on the 11th it says: Sung Eucharist for St Barnabas.

What does that mean? Will this involve singing? I am looking for a never before experience of hymns and chorals. We have never been exposed to this and I love it when I see it in the movies :) Always good to see other cultures and how they praise the almighty.

Posted by
2393 posts

The Sung Eucharist can vary from church to church, sometimes priest to priest but all include music.

Here is a description of a Sung Eucharist at St. Paul's:

"Sung Eucharist
Sung Eucharist could be considered the grandest service of the week at St Paul's, as the choir sings and the congregation receive the bread and the wine.
Sunday 11.30am - 12.45pm
This service, held under the dome, is notable for the large number of clergy that take part and the length of the service - often just over an hour. Hymns are sung and a sermon is preached
The Choir sing the principal texts to music by composers ranging from the early Middle Ages to the present day. The Mass setting is made of the Gloria, Sanctus, Benedictus and Agnus Dei.
The Eucharist is celebrated in the Cathedral with great solemnity. The action of the ministers reflects the history of how the Eucharist has been celebrated over many centuries. It is an opportunity to deepen our communion with God and with one another.
All are very welcome to attend."

Posted by
110 posts

Side note: I don't know your mobility or your touring style, however if you arrive at the tower when it opens, you'll very likely be done with your pre-St Paul's itinerary by 1:30 at the latest.

Posted by
4509 posts

Even if arriving at the Tower at opening, plan on 4 hours for seeing most things. So I'm thinking getting to St Paul's by 4:30 to queue for entry for Evensong is just about right on schedule. You may be able to walk the whole day.

My experience is that doors lock right at 5 so if you miss that you're out of luck-- no late admittance.

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