For a number of years, EHCCA has been asked to sing for a special Evensong in the amazing and old church of St James, Stansteadbury.
From the church’s website: St James’ has been a landmark for seven centuries. Built on a hillside above the River Lea, its embattled buttressed tower was a steering point for those on the water and a waymark for those on the ancient route to London. The church’s unspoiled interior has hardly been touched since Georgian times and features unusually high box pews and a three-decker pulpit. Monuments include that of a local nobleman, Sir Edward Baesh, who is shown kneeling opposite his wife.
The service, which was open to all to attend, was on Sunday 14th July at 3.00 pm. The choir rehearsed at 1.30 pm. .
On the day, over 20 singers gathered for this Evensong in a special place. The choir sang very well with special compliments due to the select team of tenors and basses! A number of people were in the congregation in the high-sided box pews. Afterwards we all walked to Stanstead Bury House close by and very much enjoyed the tea and (lovely!) cakes provided by the Trower family. We hope to sing for the same Evensong next year though we noted with sadness that, by then, the Vicar, Rev Anne Donaldson, will have retired.
Music for the service was: Introit: Tallis: If ye love me / Responses: Antony Wilson / Psalm 15 (Parish Psalter) / Canticles: Stanford in C (changed from Stanford in B flat on 10/7/19) / Anthem: Rutter: For the beauty of the earth.
This was the poster for the event.
Directions: post code SG12 8JZ. Access from A414 (on Harlow to Amwell road), through Stanstead Abbotts or from Roydon. Parking is available by the stables and house (past the church).
The service was led by Rev Anne Donaldson. Derek Harrison directed and the organist was Edward Dodge ably assisted by two organ pumpers (one for the rehearsal the other for the service).