THE KEY

The Key is a journal spotlighting the communal, cultural and civic impact of Saint Peter’s. It is published in print three times annually with feature articles, interviews and special events. The print version is based on Massimo Vignelli & Henry Altchek’s 1976 design. The digital edition features expanded content and the ability to read in translation.

Dear people of Saint Peter’s.

To be holy and right and just, God’s people are commanded: “When an alien resides with you in your land, you shall not oppress the alien. The alien who resides with you shall be to you as the native-born among you; you shall love the alien as yourself, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God” (Leviticus 19:33-34). This command is a section of the “Holiness Code.” The purpose of keeping the commands of the Code is to distinguish God’s people Israel from other nations — God holding God’s people to, and God’s people fulfilling, a higher standard. It is formulated both as a reminder of enslavement in Egypt and as a reminder that any way of treating another which is harsh or exploitative is not merely prohibited, but is not fruitful for society.

From the founding of Saint Peter’s International Ministry in 1996 with its focus on accompanying migrants to the expansive advocacy efforts of today, we see the wisdom of the Scriptures bearing out in our own time. This issue of The Key explores Saint Peter’s response to “the alien in the land” over the course of the past 30 years. In an increasingly oppressive society, we seek to continue to embody Scripture’s path of life. Why? Because not only is the humanity of others defined by it, but our own humanity, too.

Dear people of Saint Peter’s,

In Scripture, God often works through the smallest seeds, the most unexpected people, and overlooked places. In this way, we should not be surprised by the extraordinary life and enduring spirit, the strong vitality and ongoing growth of the Jazz Ministry.

It all began when Pastor John Garcia Gensel spent his free time in jazz clubs listening to musicians’ stories. Encouraged by Ruth Ellington, Jazz Vespers was first held in October 1965 at Gensel’s Upper West Side church. Weekly liturgies started when he moved here in May 1966.

Since then, Saint Peter’s has become a spiritual home for jazz musicians and fans across the lifespan. From Billy Strayhorn and John Coltrane to tributes this year for Sheila Jordan and Al Foster, Jazz Memorials are, in the words of George Wein, “celebrations of the lives of musicians ... where friends can not only say but play their respects.”

As we relaunch The Key, it is fitting this first issue — based on a historic design — marks this historic anniversary. Though for us, being The First Church of Jazz is more than history. It is who we are and a legacy we continue to honor, now and for the future. Sixty? This is just the beginning.