Patronal Festival Report - St Anne's, East Wittering

St Anne’s, East Wittering
Patron saint: St Anne
Festival date: 27 July

St Anne’s marked its Patronal Festival with a reflective and beautifully sung Choral Evensong built around the themes of rest, renewal and divine light. The service opened with the ringing of the church bell and the hymn I heard the voice of Jesus say, followed by Sing we of the blessed Mother. Psalm 121, chanted to Walford Davies, highlighted God’s protective care, while Dyson’s Magnificat and Nunc dimittis in C minor and Rutter’s Look at the world brought depth and warmth to the liturgy. The congregation ended the service with Be still, my soul.

Support from the Choral Evensong Society enabled this first Patronal Evensong, and the parish expressed real gratitude for the assistance. The choir has grown in both numbers and confidence during preparations, welcoming singers of varied ages and experience. The success of the event has encouraged hopes of making this an annual celebration.