Jazz Vespers is an evening service centered on the acts of prayer and contemplation. The word comes from the Latin vesper, meaning "evening." Numerous jazz composers have secured a place for this art form within the living tradition of the church.

The Jazz Vespers Service is itself a synthesis of several traditions, each finding a unifying voice through the unique musical heritage that we call jazz. The makers of jazz develop consummate technical achievement as both a composer and a performer. The virtuosity of the performer is not an end unto itself. The musical tradition is about the task of giving voice to the hopes, dreams, frustrations and pain that expresses human experience. Jazz is the musical incense that collects and carries the prayers of a people.