Pauli Murray Jazz Vespers
Sunday, June 23 at 5:00 pm
We invite you to join us in celebration of this trailblazing Episcopal saint. The service of Jazz Vespers for the Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray will be held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter (St. Petersburg, FL) on Sunday, June 23 at 5:00 pm. A festive reception will follow the service.
Jazz Vespers will feature music meditations by a jazz combo led by local musician David Pate and vocalist Jen Logan. Saxophonist David Pate is a Clearwater native, a successful jazz artist, and accomplished composer. Pate cites among his multiple musical influences John Coltrane, Sam Rivers, and Frank Zappa. He has also been involved with the Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association. Alongside Ms Logan and Mr Pate, we welcome accomplished jazz musicians Judi Glover and Bill Swartzbaugh.
The Rev. Janettarose Greene will be the guest preacher. Rev. Janettarose currently serves as Associate to the Rector at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Arlington, Virginia.
On being asked to preach at this service, Rev. Janettarose said, “Rev. Pauli Murray, played a little known but significant role in civil rights. She was an activist, lawyer, poet, and writer who fought against racial and gender discrimination. Her work paved the way for equality and justice for many marginalized groups. Reflecting on her legacy inspires me to advocate for social justice and equality in my own life.”
It has become a tradition to celebrate the feast of the Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray around the time of the anniversary of her passing on July 1, 1985. In 1977, Pauli Murray became the first Black woman ordained a priest in the Episcopal Church, one year after the Church changed its policy to affirm the ordination of women. Her life and work are particularly influential for Black and LGBTQ+ Episcopal leaders.
The Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray was a champion for civil and human rights. Her insights and vision continue to resonate powerfully in our times. She worked throughout her life to address injustice, to amplify community voices, to educate, and to promote reconciliation between races and economic classes.
The Cathedral Church of St. Peter is located at 140 4th St. N (entrance on 2nd Ave N). Free street parking is available as well as a parking lot across from the Cathedral entrance on 2nd Ave N. The Cathedral is ADA accessible and welcomes service animals.