Choral Vespers

Choral Vespers

As daylight fades, Choral Vespers invites students and community members into the darkened Chapel to experience sacred music, scripture readings, and prayer. The Duke Vespers Ensemble leads the choral portion of the service.

Time and Location

Choral Vespers is held on Thursdays at 7:00 p.m. during the academic year in the Chapel's main sanctuary. People attending the service are invited to sit in the first set of choir stalls in the chancel area where the altar is located. Find information about parking. Before coming to a service, please confirm the time and location on the Chapel's calendar.

Ministers and Musicians

Choral Evensong is led by Chapel staff ministers, as well as ministers from some Duke Religious Life groups and local churches. The Duke Vespers Ensemble, directed by Dr. Philip Cave, lead the service's music. The Chapel organist, as well as Chapel Organ Scholars, accompany the choir and also play opening and closing voluntaries for the service.

Webcasts and Recordings

Watch Choral Vespers services live online on the Duke Chapel YouTube channel, as well as on TV on channel 12 of the Duke Hospital TV System and channel 110 on the Duke Campus Vision TV system. Watch recordings of Vespers services below or visit the full archives.

About the Liturgy

As daylight fades, Choral Vespers invites students and community members into the darkened Chapel to experience sacred music, Scripture readings, and prayer.The Duke Vespers Ensemble leads the choral portion of the service. All are welcome!

In addition to the weekly Vespers services, two special Vespers services are held each year: All Hallows' Eve on October 31 and Advent Lessons and Carols in the season of Advent. Watch a video about All Hallows' Eve: