The St. Louis Dispatch reports that the Choir of Men and Boys from Washington National Cathedral will be singing at the presidential inaugural next week, as well as the chorale of Missouri State University. The National Cathedral choir was already scheduled to participate in the interfaith prayer service on Saturday, January 21.
From the story:
It’s a surprising choice for the National Cathedral (officially the Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul). The Episcopal Church is a liberal denomination that has long supported women’s rights, racial equality and LGBT rights; two years ago, the Cathedral hosted Friday communal prayers for Muslims. Trump’s religious base is composed primarily of white Roman Catholics and evangelicals.
A spokeswoman for the Cathedral said that music director Michael McCarthy made the decision to take part. Messages left for McCarthy and his assistant were not returned.
Addendum, 10:54 a.m.:
Prior to publishing, the Episcopal Cafe editors, via e mail, requested and received confirmation from the Cathedral staff of the choirs’ participation in the inauguration:
The short answer is yes — the dean accepted an invitation to have the choir sing at the inauguration itself, which is an optional call for choir members who are interested. They will also lead the music here at the Cathedral on the 21st. Thanks,
Kevin
Kevin Eckstrom
Chief Communications OfficerWASHINGTON NATIONAL CATHEDRAL
Wisconsin & Massachusetts Avenues, NW
Washington, DC 20016-5098