Sunday, January 12, marked a special celebration for St. Stephen’s—the world premiere of Dan Powers’ choral anthem, “The Baptism of Christ.” This work was commissioned by St. Stephen’s in response to an anonymous donation given in memory of parishioner Rosemary England and sung by the St. Stephen’s choir, directed and accompanied by choirmaster Dennis Dieken. The text, Matthew 3:13–16, was chosen to correspond with Rosemary’s “Water of Life” frontal, and the beautiful oboe obligato, played by Bill Denton, reflects the water theme. A video taken by Peggy Balensuela is posted below. Enjoy!