A series of traditional synagogue hymns rendered by Cantor Grabani of the reform temple Kenesseth Israel featured yesterday’s services at the church of St. Luke and Epiphany. Dressed in the traditional regalia of a Protestant-Episcopal churchman, Cantor Grabani led the procession at the head of the church choir.
Following the general confession in place of the Psalter Cantor Grabani rendered the Shema Yisrael. Rev. David M. Stele, rector, preached on the text “The Voice Is the Voice of Jacob and the Hands Are the Hands of Esau.” In place of the Magnificat Cantor Grabani sang Neillah and Kaddish followed by Shalom Aleichem and concluded with Kedusah.
The remainder of the service was in the regular order but no reference to the changes was made throughout the service. It was explained that this was a novel approach to church unity and to better understanding through the medium of sacred music. Neillah and Kaddish made the greatest impression upon the audience which was entirely composed of Christians.
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