I've been an Episcopalian all my life, with some non-church time. When my wife became ill, she…read moresuggested we return to the church that had been our spiritual guide all our married lives. When she passed in 2014, I found it important to return to the church that has the most beautiful music, the richness of the Book of Common Prayer, a great history, and Apostolic Succession.
I had a few churches to choose from, but Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church was the one I chose, not just because of the membership in the Anglican Communion, but because the church is beautiful, it has a richness of worship, expressing it through music, the beauty of the word, the depth of spiritual strength of the clergy and parishioners. There is evidence of the congregation taking the commands of Jesus seriously - feed the hungry, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless; this church does all that and more.
As a musician, I have found a place that caters to my personal need for excellent music - since I joined Emmanuel Memorial, I have been a part of the choir. There is a pipe organ that accompanies the worship service, played by expert organists. The current organist is the president of the local organ builder and the chief voicer. The choirmaster is a professional pianist, organist, and music director. The choir has a finely balanced group of singers that includes 'Choral Scholars' who are music students of the amazing University of Illinois music program. Beyond the existence of marvellous musicians and equipment, there is another reason I bring this up; my experience as a musician from a musical family has brought me to appreciate how excellent music performance brings me closer to God. This church has done that in spades!
Emmanuel is a traditional High Church with well-trained and motivated clergy. The rector (Fr. Zachery Giulianno, PhD) was a Godsend - formerly of Peoria, IL, he and his wife spent a decade in Great Britain, he teaching at University there. He is supportive of the music program there, recognizing the promise of soul-lifting that our music offers.
Other outreaches of the parish include hospitality, children's programs, feeding the homeless and other people throughout the year, and so much more.
If you are looking for a church home, I can't think of a better one than Emmanuel Memorial Episcopal Church to recommend. Come see for yourself!
