Our Stories: Jolene Phelps

Written by Jolene Phelps, Published on July 16, 2018

My first visit to St. Paul’s was during summer when churches are notoriously bare.  However, St. Paul’s was moderately full and billed as a Cathedral. 

When I travel, I try to visit cathedrals simply because the music is often transcendent and reminds me of the creative genius that has flourished in the church throughout the ages.  Many other elements exist in the historical church, sometimes to its detriment, but creativity always represents our godly natures. 

The service revolved around the same Episcopal liturgy as all Episcopal churches – the sung responses were the same, the format of the service the same.  And, most importantly, the gift of the Eucharist was ever-present.  The consistency of the Anglican service is something I’ve grown to cherish – especially when experiencing it somewhere new. It allows me to belong, stripping away ego concerned about, “What is next?” “What am I supposed to be doing?” I was fed.

Choral music for worship touches a deep place in my soul. I find it calming, as well as exciting, refreshing and, let’s face it, to my taste.

But yes, since it was summer, there was no choir during that first visit.  However, the solo sung during the offering demonstrated that this community brings its best to the table.  That creativity and effort to present, as offering, the very best told me this community values how we make an offering as much as what we offer.

I’ve been generously enfolded into the choir as my intimate church family, and it has made me a better person in my relationship to God and to others.

Jolene is still singing in the Cathedral Choir and serves on the Chapter (Vestry Committee).