Memorial Mass for Barry Chevannes

THE HOLY Trinity Roman Catholic Cathedral is to host a Mass in memory of the late Professor Barry Chevannes on Friday.

"The Mass being held will celebrate Professor Chevannes' life and contribution to church music. Professor Chevannes combined his knowledge gained through his studies in anthropology and theology to create profound music that is timeless and enduring," Deacon Peter Espeut, told The Gleaner last week.

Espeut noted that the Mass, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the North Street-based institution, is an opportunity to support and console the family of Chevannes. All except a few of the songs which will play at the mass will be creations of Chevannes, who studied for the priesthood after leaving St George's College.

"Expect a great deal of song and worship as we celebrate Jesus along with remembering a great human being who spent his life following him and contributing wonderful music that has helped people praise God," Espeut said.

Chevannes died last November at the University Hospital of the West Indies, after succumbing to an acute case of pancreatitis, a sudden inflammation of the pancreas. He was 70 years old.

His death was a great shock to Jamaica, especially within the academic, religious and cultural communities.

- Sean Rhoden