The Office of Tenebrae

The men of the Grace Church Schola sing Gregorian Chant and Renaissance polyphony in a darkened church with the gradual extinguishing of candles. This unique liturgy is based on the ancient monastic offices of Matins and Laudes and ends with the dramatic “strepitus” or loud noise as the final candle is hidden away, signifying the apparent victory of darkness over the light. The candle then reappears symbolizing the hope of the world persevering and by its light all depart in silence.