"We celebrate St. Francis because it reminds us of our connection to nature and the animals in nature," said Fr. Michael Bird. Before the feast of St. Francis, patron saint of animals and ecology, we’ll thank God for all creation in a short service that includes a blessing of each animal present.
Trinity proudly presents New York’s first fully staged performances of Craig Hella Johnson’s epic fusion oratorio, Considering Matthew Shepard. Johnson created the oratorio as “a space for reflection, consideration, and unity around [Shepard’s] life and legacy.” LGBTQ+ community and educational events will be scheduled in collaboration with Trinity’s Pride 365 program, which focuses on LGBTQ+ advocacy throughout the year.
Elliott Forrest and Rod Caspers, Stage Directors
Malcolm J. Merriweather, Music Director
Beowulf Boritt, Scenic Designer
Ken Billington, Lighting Designer
Claudia Stefany, Costume Designer
Dustin Z West, Production Supervisor
Nate Bertone, Scenic Assistant
Lauren Page Russell, Props Supervisor
Brian Giebler as Matthew Shepard
Nickolas Karageorgiou, narrator
The Choir of Trinity Wall Street and NOVUS NY
Prior to the opening performance of Craig Hella Johnson’s epic fusion oratorio, Considering Matthew Shepard, a panel of experts will discuss spiritual violence and its connection to physical violence targeting LGBTQ+ people. Queerphobic spiritual violence is so pervasive that it can almost be difficult to see. Naming this violence and characterizing its impact is an imperative first step toward change and healing.
Liz Edman, Moderator, Priest, Political Strategist, and author of Queer Virtue
Beverly Tillery, Executive Director, NYC Anti-Violence Project
The Rev. Matthew Welsch, Priest and Director, Youth and Community Care, Trinity Church Wall Street
Tabytha Gonzalez, Associate Human Rights Specialist and Transgender Liaison, NYC Commission on Human Rights
All are welcome to join a choral evensong service, in person and online, as Trinity Church Wall Street welcomes members of the Vergers Guild of the Episcopal Church on the first evening of their 34th Annual Conference.
The Vergers Guild of the Episcopal Church (VGEC) is a service organization that supports the ministry of vergers, sacristans, worship leaders, altar guild members, and more. Although the positions have many different names, all identify with the historic name and work of the verger: a member of a church who works under the direction of their rector, vicar, or priest-in-charge to assist with the organization and operation of worship services.
