Vespers on the Lanai is a casual event which combines great music with an opportunity for spiritual reflection. We host great local bands and intersperse the music with readings and poetry: a chance to think and connect. We explore a variety of musical genres and think broadly so those of any religious tradition or no religious tradition should feel comfortable. Vespers events are typically the second Friday of the month from 7-8pm, so check back on this page at the beginning of each month for updates about what's coming up!
OUR CURRENT IN-PERSON AUDIENCE PROTOCOL:
- We no longer require proof of Covid vaccination nor have an RSVP process.
- If the weather holds and we can hold Vespers outside, we will not limit the audience size outside and masks are optional.
- Please bring a lawn chair or blanket for outdoor seating.
- However, if rain moves us indoors, we can only seat 50 indoors (masked) with the remainder on the lanai (masked) (which is covered but narrow) and lawn (masks optional). So please be patient and understanding should that occur, and be prepared for foul weather if you end up on the edge of the lanai or on the lawn
For those at home, we will continue to livestream Vespers online on our CCU Facebook page from 7-8pm; just click on the live video on www.facebook.com/christchurchuniting which will appear just before or at 7pm. NOTE: You do NOT have to be a Facebook member to watch; anyone can access the page and video.
To watch later (along with all our previous Vespers on the Lanai videos), click on the Past Vespers on the Lanai button below, or access our CCU YouTube Channel by clicking here. Catch up and enjoy them anytime!
To get the latest updates on our events, or if you're interested in being part of our live audience, click here to join our email list so you can receive our monthly Vespers announcement.
This month we welcomed back Kailua Moon in their larger band format, with their romance between traditional Hawaiian Music and modern pop and Americana. Comprised of singer-songwriter Nani Carvalho and slack-key guitarist Danny Carvalho, joined by Wil Tafolo (bass/vocals) and Paul Nelson (guitar), this modern Hawaiian group is based in Kailua and has toured across the United States sharing Hawaiian music and culture. Their first single was nominated for Hawaiian Single Of The Year in the Na Hoku Hanohano Awards in 2019, and their debut album Back To Paradise earned them a nomination for Entertainer of the Year for the 2020 Awards.
More Artist info at kailuamoon.com & wiltafolomusic.com.
This was a very special evening featuring members of Oahu's Ukrainian community and the group #HawaiiStandsWithUkraine. We learned about the history and plight of Ukraine, heard heartfelt singing and stories of what is happening there, and together raised over $1,800 in relief funds which will be donated to their recommended non-profits: RazomForUkraine.org & WCK.org & NovaUkraine.org. Please consider supporting relief efforts in Ukraine by donating to these organizations. Mahalo nui!
Click below to view past recordings of Vespers on the Lanai events.
Vespers on the Lanai - April 8, 2022
Featuring the #HawaiiStandsWithUkraine
We featured two performers: Olga Sousa and Lara Palafox. Olga Sousa, a Kailua resident originally from Ukraine, is a multi-faceted artist -- actor, writer, painter, producer and singer -- and a beacon of positivity and persistence. She'll be sharing a few Ukranian songs and other creative inspiration. Click here to view Olga's latest music video, click here for her poetry recital, and visit www.olgasousa.com for more artist info. We also heard from Lara Palafox, an actor, writer, director, and producer of Ukranian descent, with a fascinating family history and journey from Ukraine to Australia and beyond. Lara will recite poetry and talk about Ukraine and its history, with audience Q&A..
We invite you to join us as we come together in support of the people of Ukraine. If you would like to support in other ways, please visit www.facebook.com/HawaiiStandsWithUkraine for information on our local Ukranian community and their efforts: Hawaii stands with Ukraine is a local movement supporting Ukrainian people in their time of need. We organize events, spreading awareness, helping raising funds and donations. Our Recommended Aid Organizations For Ukraine Donations: Razomforukraine.org & Wck.org & Novaukraine.org
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendars for these great upcoming events.
