Spirited worship

From “Amazing Grace”  to “When the Saints Go Marching In,” Sunday’s 10 a.m. service mirrored all the traditions of Mardi Gras before we turn our attention to the solemnity of Lent. This was Jazz Sunday, Cape Elizabeth style, at its best.

Maintaining one of the church’s favorite traditions, Stephen Bither and a gathering of his talented musical friends, played Dixieland jazz throughout the service, bringing people to their feet at the end with an extended rendition of “The Saints.”

Stephen’s troupe this year included Peter Lord on soprano saxophone,  Roger Snow on trombone, Peter Dunphy on banjo, Eric Anderson on tuba, and Paul Aranson on drums. Stephen, of course, led from the piano.

Throughout the service, the jazz sextet was joined by the church choir and at times by Faith York and her ukulele and Gail Parker on the organ. There was plenty of improvising, but with any good jazz performance, you just couldn’t tell.

To add to the spirit of the day, Mardi Gras beads were handed out to everyone who entered the sanctuary.

Following the service, a pancake brunch was served, thanks to the hard work — behind the scenes — of Terry Keezer, Steve and Megan Parker, and Chris DeSantis. Thank you, all!

Click here for some more images of Jazz Sunday: