A Jubilant 50th Anniversary: Recapping the 2025 Mississippi Conference on Church Music & Liturgy
The 50th Annual Mississippi Conference on Church Music & Liturgy, held from July 22-27, 2025, was a week of profound music, deep fellowship, and spirited celebration. We returned "home" to St. Philip’s Episcopal Church in Jackson, where the conference first began, to mark this golden anniversary milestone. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the sounds of prayer, rehearsal, and the joy of reuniting as a community dedicated to sacred music.
A Distinguished Faculty and a Warm Welcome
We were incredibly fortunate to learn from and worship with an exceptional faculty:
The Rt. Rev. Douglas F. Scharf, Bishop of Southwest Florida, who provided teaching and preached at our Evensong.
The Rev. William Bradley Roberts, composer, author, and Emeritus Professor of Church Music, who led conversations and whose new setting of the Lord's Prayer was premiered.
Mr. Deke Polifka, Director of Music at St. Paul’s Memorial Church, Charlottesville, who served as clinician and accompanist.
Dr. Matthew Hoch, choirmaster and professor, who shared his expertise in voice and church music.
Our heartfelt thanks to the Rev. Les Hegwood, the Rev. Marie Smith, and the entire staff and congregation of St. Philip’s for their gracious hospitality. The conference also extends its gratitude to the Cathedral Church of St. Peter (R.C.) for hosting us for a magnificent Evensong.
Musical and Liturgical Highlights
The week was structured around the Daily Office and Eucharist, with rehearsals and teaching sessions weaving together a tapestry of prayer and work. The musical offerings were a fitting tribute to 50 years of excellence.
A Glorious Evensong at St. Peter's Cathedral: The Friday evening service was a true "mountain top" experience. The phenomenal acoustics of the cathedral were filled with the sounds of Orlando Gibbons' Short Service and Herbert Howells' breathtaking anthem, A Hymn for St. Cecilia. The homily was delivered by Bishop Scharf.
Listen to a recording of the Evensong service here:
The Closing Eucharist: The conference culminated in a celebratory Sunday service, featuring the world premiere of The Rose Hill Mass by Jessica L. Nelson and an anthem by William Bradley Roberts, "Here, O My Lord, I See Thee Face to Face." The service was enhanced by a brass ensemble and timpani, bringing a glorious sound to St. Philip's nave.
Fellowship, Fun, and the Future
Beyond the rehearsals and services, the conference was alive with community. From browsing the wonderful selections at the Lois Fyfe Music display to sharing meals in the Parish Hall, the bonds of friendship were strengthened.
A highlight of our social time was the triumphant return of the Rose Hill Cabaret – Back from Exile on Saturday night. It was an evening of incredible talent, laughter, and "letting our hair down," masterfully emceed by David Williamson.
In Memoriam
The conference remembered and gave thanks for the lives and contributions of several beloved members of our community who have entered the larger life, including Jan Magee Evers, Dr. Paul David Andersen, Robert J. Powell, and John Repulski. Their legacy in church music continues to inspire us.
Thank You & Save the Date!
A conference of this scale is only possible through the dedication of many people. We extend our deepest gratitude to the conference staff and board, our accompanists, the St. Lawrence Guild cooking ministry, and all the volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes.
The 50th anniversary was a beautiful and historic gathering. As we conclude, we carry the music, the prayers, and the friendships with us back to our home parishes, renewed and inspired for another year of ministry.
We look forward to seeing you all again in 2026!
