The 2009 Reformation Service at Washington National Cathedral was a festive event commemorating historic actions of Martin Luther and celebrating present decisions of the Oromo Evangelical Church of Washington, DC to become the newest ELCA congregation in the synod.

DESCRIPTIONS OF PHOTOS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT (find full-size images in this Flickr photo album):

• Choir members of the Oromo Evangelical Church of Washington, DC, sang songs of praise. *
• Our guest preacher - the Rev. Gemechis Buba, Director for African National Ministries, ELCA Evangelical Outreach and Congregational Mission – greeted worshippers after the service.
• As choir members and musicians from Lenoir-Rhyne University left the loft, their director – Dr. Paul Weber – received thanks from worshippers appreciative of their contributions.
• Bishop Graham (at left) presided at the service.
• The Lenoir-Rhyne University A Capella Choir, directed by Dr. Weber, and Brass Ensemble, conducted by Christopher Nigrelli, provided pre-service music and a setting by Dr. Weber of Psalm 46 during worship.
• The “Holy Word of God” was held aloft by Pr. Buba as he preached on its power in Luther’s time and onward, as when the Bible was translated into the Oromo language “100 years ago.” *
• Members of the Oromo Evangelical Church of Washington, DC joined Bishop Graham and synod officers in the Rite for the Organization and Reception of a Congregation. *
• Singers and musicians leaving the loft.
• In our prayers, we thanked God “for these brothers and sisters who join in our work and witness. United us in mission and praise, that with one voice we may glorify you both in our witness and in our worship.”
• Members of the Oromo Evangelical Church of Washington, DC stood when speaking of faith and our intention to be part of the ELCA. All gathered spoke the Apostles’ Creed, heard in English and in Affan Oromo.
• In the anthem sung by the new congregation’s choir, lyrics invited all to “Declare His glory among the nations.”
• From the loft, the Lenoir-Rhyne A Cappella Choir prepared pieces by Mendelssohn, Holst, Brahms, Mozart and Duke Ellington to join worshippers hearts in praise.
• Oromo Evangelical Church of Washington, DC choir members remained standing as the service moved from song to promises and prayer.
• Around 650 people participated in the worship service, here photographed during the sermon with Pr. Buba in the pulpit.
• Ushers from the Lutheran Lay Fellowship helped make our visiting congregation welcome in the majestic space of Washington National Cathedral.

*Special thanks to Berhanu Yadata and a member of the Oromo Evangelical Church of Washington, DC for these photos.