Hope Lutheran Church is changing up their service routine with monthly Jazz Vespers Services.

Following a 1960’s trend, Jazz Vespers Services began in New York City under the Reverend John Gensel of Saint Peter’s Lutheran Church. According to Pastor Patricia Medley of the Hope Lutheran Church, Jazz Vespers feature a brief liturgy of evening prayer, devotional readings and jazz music and are open to all people, regardless of religious beliefs.

Dean Poulsen, Minister of Music at Hope Lutheran Church, has put together an ensemble of musical talents to perform at the church’s Jazz Vespers.

“All of the musicians assembled are very skilled,” explained Poulsen. “The service will have familiar melodies and tunes they will just have a different sound to them.”

This Sunday, will be the first Jazz Vespers Service to take place at Hope Lutheran Church.

“Jazz music has very strong ties to gospel music, it’s flexible and is an easy way to introduce people and bring other community members in,” said Poulsen.

Currently, Jazz Vespers Services are scheduled for Sunday, March 18, April 15, and May 13. This weekend’s upcoming service will begin at 6:30 p.m. and there will be refreshments after the service.