The Saint John's Bible is a work of art and a work of theology. Donald Jackson has lead a team of calligraphers and artists in the creation of a new, 21st Century, hand written bible that captures centuries of beauty and tradition and carries the word of God into the future. Every brush stroke and every pause for breath is a conversation with God. Just as Donald describes the illuminations as 'spiritual meditations on a text', you are invited to meditate in darkness on the message of Christ, guided by word, image and music that reflects the rhythm and layers of this great work of Art.
Music has always played a central part in the life of this famous London church. There has been an organ here since before 1500, Handel and possibly even Mozart both played on the Schreider organ of 1727; and the Academy of St Martin in the Fields was founded here in the 1950s by Sir Neville Marriner and the then Master of Music John Churchill. Historically, our organists were shared with Westminster Abbey, but more recently eminent musicians such as W.T. Best, Arnold Goldsborough and Martin Shaw have been resident organists.
The Choir of St Martin-in-the-Fields sings at the Parish Eucharist and Choral Evensong each Sunday and this is complemented by extra seasonal services - particularly at during Advent, Christmas, Holy Week and Easter; several concerts per year both at St Martin's as part of the renowned concert series there and at external venues of note; and a schedule of regular broadcasts on BBC Radio and Television. The Choir have recently recorded a CD, 'Christmas at St Martin-in-the-Fields'.
In 2009-10 we are delighted to welcome the return of the St Martin's Choral Scholarship Scheme. Ten choral scholars sing Choral Eucharist at 1.15pm and Choral Evensong at 5pm each Wednesday during term time, as well as receiving an extensive programme of training in different aspects of church and choral music.