Shopping in the New Jerusalem

On Saturday, October 30, shoppers at the Macy's department store in Philadelphia were surprised when more than 600 professional choristers, who were mingling among the shoppers, began singing Handel's Hallelujah Chorus accompanied by the world's largest pipe organ which happens to be in the historic Wanamaker Building where Macy's is located. The event was part of the Knight Foundation's "1000 Random Acts of Culture" which will take place over three years. Maybe what shopping in the New Jerusalem will be like.

A lot of the folks seeming to sing with authority are wearing round, brownish badges -- maybe they're the choristers (?). A shame that Handel's Messiah is now firmly ensconced in "Christmas Culture" rather than "Christian Culture" where it began. But having Christ presented at the counters of commercialism is a good thing regardless. (Tip 'o the hat to my grade- and high-school buddy Lile for passing this on.)