The 2022 Christ the King Music Festival at St. Francis de Sales Oratory in St. Louis took place this past October 23rd through November 2nd surrounding the Liturgical Feast Days of Christ the King, All Saints and All Souls. Mr. James Marck, The St. Francis de Sales Schola, Children’s Preparatory Choir, guest artists, instrumental ensembles, choristers from several states and many clergy, oblates, candidates, volunteers and staff joined forces to produce a most festive week of Solemn Masses, concerts, a grand dinner, a masquerade ball, a potluck and a carnival that many faithful attended.
The Festival kicked-off with an incredible organ concert by highly credited Michael Hey on Sunday October 23rd. The following Wednesday, rehearsals began with the schola, guest choristers and Abbe Raymond Schmidt who assisted with directing the Gregorian Chant. Thursday evening was Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament followed by another rehearsal, and a Grand Dinner with guest speaker Jeffrey Wisniewski on Friday evening. Saturday was a day full of more rehearsals for the choir and orchestra, an Early Music Concert given by the Kingsbury Ensemble, followed by a Masquerade Ball in the evening. On Sunday, for the Solemn Feast of Christ the King, the choir sang Mozart’s Coronation Mass. Mr. James Marck directed with Concertmaster and violinist Adrian Walker. A festive potluck and carnival followed the Mass which included many fun games and a dunk tank! Canon Dumain, Canon Coggeshall, Abbe Alex, Jeffery the candidate and Mr. Marck were all dunked with much amusement from the faithful.
Monday evening the rehearsals continued as the choir prepared to sing for the Feasts of All Saints. Palestrina’s a capella Missa Sanctorum Meritis rang through the church and the Children’s Preparatory Choir joined the choir for two motets during Holy Communion. For the Feast of All Souls the orchestra returned with the choir featuring Durufle’s Requiem. Truly, the Christ the King Music Festival of 2022 was filled with music glorifying God and brought many people together to honor and celebrate these major liturgical feasts. Much appreciation and gratitude to all that made it possible. Please join us next year!
