CAMDEN – Since 1885, the sounds of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception’s organ have uplifted the hearts of all who enter the church.
Andrew Ennis, the Cathedral’s organist and musical director, hopes it continues to do so for another 140 years, and more.
“It’s a gem in the city of Camden,” he said, adding that the instrument brings listeners “into a sonically spiritual experience.”
On March 30, an audience that included Bishop Joseph A. Williams enjoyed a benefit concert for the organ’s restoration and repair. The program included pieces from some of history’s most well-known composers, including Giacomo Puccini, famous for his Italian operas; German-born pianist Felix Mendelssohn; and American organist Robert Elmore.
Ennis showcased the organ’s grandeur, but he wasn’t alone. Joining him was accomplished musician Peter Richard Conte, Grand Court Organist for the Wanamaker Organ at Macy’s in Philadelphia. Just the week before, on March 22, Conte and other renowned organists had performed a daylong concert celebrating the instrument as Center City’s Macy’s closed its doors for good.
At the Cathedral, there were solo showcases for the two performers, while other works included Conte on the organ and Ennis on the flugelhorn.
Mike Bedics, director of Worship and Christian Initiation for the Diocese of Camden, serves as organist for diocesan celebrations at the Cathedral. He noted that the organ’s grand sounds “elevate worship and get people in the space of prayerfulness.”
Built in 1885 by the Hook and Hastings Company from Boston, the organ is an example of the American Symphonic style of organ-building with large-scale pipe work that produces sounds that resemble a symphony orchestra. It was enlarged by the Canadian company Casavant Frères in 1926, and rebuilt in 1995 by Patrick J. Murphy Jr. of Stowe, Pa. In 2019-2020, the organ was completely cleaned and restored by Stephen L. Emery Inc. from Quakertown, Pa.; most recently, the organ’s computer board and memory system were replaced.
Donations help keep the organ routinely maintained, as well as support much-needed repairs to the console mechanics.
With its range of big and loud to extreme soft, Ennis said, “This instrument makes the liturgy that much more introspective” at weekend Masses and special events and celebrations.
The “hymn machine,” as he called it, “can make a difference in how people carry themselves throughout the week; it forces them to listen not only to the organ, but to listen internally, and makes them want to come back.
Ennis said he was thankful for the generous donors who, over the years, “have shown their respect for this instrument and want to keep it going,” adding that he hopes others follow their lead to preserve its beauty for future generations.
“We have to help this incredible instrument continue to make a joyful noise,” he said.
To donate to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception’s Organ Repair Fund, go to www.osvhub.com/camdencathedral/giving/funds.
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