Thousands attend the Washington National Cathedral and the Kennedy Center’s performances of Handel’s Messiah every December in Washington, DC. First performed in Dublin, Ireland, in 1741, the Messiah is one of the world’s most excellent and recognized musical performances. Technically an oratorio, it was written by Charles Jennens and set to music by George Frideric Handel, a compositional genius.

Most known for the Hallelujah Chorus and the beautiful Scripture texts of the Old and New Testaments, the theme is the Messiah’s (Anointed One, or Christ) life, death, and resurrection. I have listened about a dozen times and always walk away profoundly moved.

Handel’s Messiah allows young listeners to become more familiar with one of the Bible’s primary themes and the Bible’s story. While attending an in-person performance is a good idea, you can watch the Washington National Cathedral’s December 8th live stream performance for free. You can also purchase a recording; I recommend the 1985 performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus.

If you attend or listen to a performance, let me know on my Facebook page or at info@movingship.com.