Evensong Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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evensong
[ˈiː.vən.sɒŋ ]
Definition
type of service
Evensong is a choral service that is typically held in the early evening, often within the context of the Anglican Church. It is a form of evening prayer that includes the singing of psalms, hymns, and other religious texts. The service is performed by a choir or a congregation and may feature organ music to accompany the singing. Evensong has its roots in monastic practices and has evolved over the centuries to include various musical and liturgical elements.
Synonyms
Evening prayer, vespers.
Examples of usage
- The cathedral holds Evensong every Sunday evening.
- She loved attending Evensong during her time at university.
- Evensong is a beautiful way to end the day in prayer.
Translations
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Origin of 'evensong'
The term 'evensong' derives from the Old English words 'æfen' meaning evening and 'sang' meaning song. Its usage can be traced back to the traditions of the Anglo-Saxon church in England, where evening prayer services were held in accordance with the monastic liturgical schedule. As Christianity spread, these services became more formalized, leading to the structure of Evensong found in present-day Anglican liturgy. The Book of Common Prayer, established in the 16th century, played a significant role in standardizing the format and music of Evensong, emphasizing its musical elements and the importance of community worship. Throughout the centuries, Evensong has maintained a significant place in Anglican worship, reflecting both a spiritual and cultural continuity in the church's history.