01/04/2026
At Christ Church, Jebel Ali, our Choral Evensong service on Sunday 29th (Palm Sunday) was a truly beautiful and contemplative gathering, shaped by the rich Anglican tradition in which scripture, prayer, and music are woven together into a deeply reflective act of worship. In the quiet beauty of the liturgy, the congregation found space for stillness—an especially meaningful gift in a world marked by ongoing conflict in the Middle East. For the more than 60 people who gathered, the service offered a moment of peace, unity, and shared prayer at a time when such moments feel increasingly precious.
Under the thoughtful musical direction of Rob Johnston and accompanied by the exceptional artistry of Paul Griffiths, a dedicated choir of volunteers led the worship with great sensitivity and devotion. Their offering of psalms, canticles, and anthem brought depth and colour to the liturgy, helping draw those present into a place of profound spiritual reflection.
We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to gather in this way and for the sense of peace, beauty, and togetherness that filled our church. Choral Evensong continues to be a cherished expression of Anglican spirituality—an invitation to pause, to listen, and to encounter God in the stillness.
Our Musicians
Paul Griffiths, a gifted organist and musician, brought his remarkable expertise to the service. A licentiate of the Royal Academy of Music and an associate of the Royal College of Music, Paul has held senior positions within the Royal College of Organists, including Chairman of the Executive Committee and later Vice President. His musical contributions across Dubai are widely recognised, from accompanying the RSCM Voices South Choir and Dubai Chamber Choir to his work with the Dubai Singers. In January 2024 he became Chairman of the Board of Governors of Dubai College—and, in his “spare” time, he serves as CEO of Dubai International Airport.
Rob Johnston, Musical Director of Nabra Chamber Choir, Manager of the BBC Singers, and Director of RSVP VOICES, brings decades of professional choral experience to his work with us. He has conducted at venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Dubai Opera, judged major music competitions including COBIS and Young Musician of the Gulf, and his choirs have recorded soundtracks for Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, and Napoleon. His leadership of our Evensong choir helped lift the entire service to a truly memorable level.
For a link to a recording of the service, click on the link below: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pc79_UnJGuc