Gregorian Prayer Night is an evening of prayer, music, meditation, and readings, along with Eucharistic Adoration. The evening’s music is centred around Gregorian Chant, the ancient but living song of the church. The choir sings various Gregorian chants suitable for the season as well as choral meditations and organ works that come out of the Gregorian tradition through the centuries, including music from our own time. I spoke to Judy Savoy, who assists with Gregorian Prayer Night, to get more information. 

Where did the Gregorian Prayer Night idea come from?

The idea first came out of conversations Peter Togni had with our former pastor, Fr. James Mallon, as well as Fr. Simon and Phil Marmen, our former music coordinator. As Worship Arts Coordinator at the parish, I was asked if I would help plan the program using my background in professional theatre.

If someone has never been to a Gregorian Prayer Night before, what can they expect when they walk in the doors?

 The lights will be dimmed and soft instrumental music will be playing. Candles will be lit in the church so that the overall ambience is one of serenity. The Blessed Sacrament will be exposed on the altar for a time of Adoration. The program is one hour in length, but attendees can stay afterwards to pray for a while, or join in some social time in the foyer and the St. Joseph Room. 

How is a night like this different from a Proclaim night with the praise & worship band? 

There are only a few congregational songs, but they are not the focus. There is also no speaker giving a talk. Worship at Gregorian Prayer Night is more contemplative with the main focus on the Blessed Sacrament and on the music, readings, reflections, and prayer. 

How does it fit in with Advent and Christmas? 

Advent is a time of preparation, not only for the birth of Christ, but also for his second coming. To sit in silence and come before the Blessed Sacrament, and then to listen to beautiful music helps centre us to meditate on the truth and beauty of the Christ child and the risen Lord. 

What are you most looking forward to at this next night?

I look forward to slowing down and letting the music wash over me, to listen intently to the words of scripture, then to pray. Gregorian Prayer Night is something I look forward to every year. 

What are some things I can do to prepare myself ahead of time?

If you are not familiar with this style of music you might consider going on YouTube and listening to Gregorian Chant. Light some candles, sit back and relax. For many people, classical music is unknown territory, but in its day it was popular music. Step outside your musical comfort zone and explore another way to worship God.

 Peter Togni and his choir do such an amazing job in this, and my hope is that more and more people will come and be lifted up by everything this night holds. Someone who was at the last one was heard to say, “I would pay top dollar for this!” But, like grace and mercy, it’s free.