Fill Us With Thy Radiance, Now and Evermore

Wondrous revelation, light of endless light! As December brings crisp nights, starry skies and frosty snow to Minnesota, we gather to celebrate the joy and wonder of Christmas and let our spirits be filled with radiant carols welcoming the gift of the Christ child. Directed by Mark Stover, you’ll hear O Nata Lux by Lauridsen, In Winter’s Night by Forsberg, and Salvation is Created by Chesnokov. Savor the dramatic Ave Maria by Verdi and Palestrina’s Hodie Christus Natus Est joyfully proclaiming Christ’s birth. With cello, Rutter’s melodic Carol of the Magi illuminates their journey to a lowly stable lit by the Eastern Star. We lift up our voices in a rousing African spiritual and Heleluyan, a traditional Muskogee (Creek) Indian song. Ola Gjeilo’s heavenly Serenity, Carraciolo’s stirring Jesus I Adore Thee, and beloved music by Christiansen and Clausen promise a splendid moment for you and yours at Wayzata Community Church and Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas.

Mark Stover, guest conductor

Mark serves as Minister of Worship, Music and Arts at Colonial Church in Edina where he conducts the Colonial Chorale, Chamber Singers, and leads the Worship Band. Stover earned degrees from St. Olaf College and Luther Seminary under mentors Dr. Anton Armstrong and Dr. Paul Westermeyer. Mark has been appointed as sabbatical replacement Instructor in Music at St. Olaf for spring semester 2014, conducting the St. Olaf Choir, Collegiate Chorale and teaching choral conducting. Mark, his wife Julie, and newborn son Jack, live in Minneapolis.