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A first-of-its-kind ecumenical Evensong is happening at St. John's, Shaughnessy on Saturday, March 21 at 4 p.m., and all are welcome to take part.

Deacons from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vancouver (RCAV) and the Anglican Diocese of New Westminster will be worshipping together and no doubt finding areas of common interest in their ministries in the world.

The gathering happens to fall on what is marked in the Anglican church calendar as the Commemoration of Thomas Cranmer -- a key figure in the Reformation that saw England break away from the church in Rome. The March 21 Evensong, however, will mark our rich common heritage and the beauty of shared traditions of prayer.

The invitation to pray together came from the RCAV and was enthusiastically embraced by Archbishop John, who has expressed his hope that the service be well attended by clergy and laity alike. Co-officiants at the Evensong will be the Rev'd Deacon Richard Chau, Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations Officer for the RCAV, and the Ven. Peggy Trendell-Jensen, Archdeacon for Deacons in the Diocese of New Westminster.

Music for the liturgy will be led by David Poon, Director of Music at St. John's, Shaughnessy.