Millions of people live in the major cities of the world. And there are also traces of a vibrant New Apostolic faith to be found. Three examples from three continents show how varied congregational life is …
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Photo: NAC South Africa
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Photo: NAK Schweiz
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Photo: NAK Schweiz
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Photo: NAK Schweiz
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Photo: NAC USA
Cape Town (South Africa)
Music director or resident conductor are prestigious positions in the major orchestras of this world. Brandon Phillips was appointed as the new resident conductor of the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra (CPO). Louis Heyneman, the CEO of the orchestra, said, “We are so proud of Brandon Phillips and what he has achieved. He is a product of the CPO’s development programmes. He is a fine young conductor.” Phillips is 35 years old and a professional all-rounder. He is also a talented sportsman, whether in soccer or as a sprinter. In 2012 he was appointed as conductor of the Cape Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. Born in Mitchell’s Plain, the young Brandon started his music career at age 11 with the recorder, which he played in the New Apostolic congregation in Hazeldene. More instruments followed, and with time he became proficient in the flute, clarinet, tenor saxophone, trumpet, euphonium, viola, cello, and the violin. At age 16 he fell in love with the bassoon. He was principal bassoonist of the CPO for a number of years.
New York (USA)
Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider travelled to New York, USA, from 12 to 14 June. On Saturday afternoon he met with the Apostles and Bishops from the United States and Latin America. This was followed by a worship evening hosted by some of the New York City congregations. The topic was “We need to talk”. The theme was woven throughout the evening’s programme of Bible readings, personal testimonies, and music. The songs ranged from the more traditional to gospel, and one even had Caribbean flavour. On Sunday, the Chief Apostle conducted the divine service in the town of Woodbury, New York State, which we reported on last week.
Sankt Gallen (Zurich)
The Youth Symphony Orchestra (YSO) of the New Apostolic Church Switzerland gave two concerts in June and presented itself from its best side. About three weeks after a powerful concert in Zurich’s concert hall, Tonhalle, with an audience of over 1,400, the YSO gave a second performance at the St Laurenzen Church in Sankt Gallen. The orchestra mesmerized the audience with pieces from Schubert, Sibelius, Massenet, Dvořák, and Brahms. The beautiful church building contributed to making this a very impressive musical experience for everyone.
A day later, a Sunday, the orchestra was given the honour of playing at the closing service of the Ecumenical Christian Music Day Sankt Gallen and the Church Music Festival Cantars. Some 3,000 Christians from various denominations had come for this service. In addition to the JSO, there was a choir, a band, and a 250-member brass orchestra.