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,

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.