News from the Pews: Bergt Memorial Concert Planned

This week's News from the Pews feature includes a look at a yoga class happening Thursday in Clayton and a memorial concert planned Sunday that will commemorate the life of a former Concordia Seminary artist-in-residence.

Yoga class planned Thursday at First Congregational Church

These days, we could all use a deep breath. is offering a way for residents to slow down and breathe deeply—yoga classes.

The first of this year’s yoga classes is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Thursday. There is no cost associated with the class. Participants only need to bring a yoga sticky mat and their unwanted stress. To promote flexibility, it is suggested that participants refrain from eating for roughly two hours before the class.

The class is taught be Leila Sadat, a Kripalu-certified yoga instructor and law professor at Washington University.

Kripalu is a type of yoga that emphasizes meditation, physical healing and spiritual transformation. Classes tend to begin with breathing exercises and stretches followed by individual poses and final relaxation.

All ability levels are welcomed, and the first session is especially geared to beginners. Classes are held at First Congregational Church of St. Louis, 6501 Wydown Blvd. For more information, call the church office at 314-721-5060.

Robert Bergt memorial concert set for Sunday

For decades, St. Louis residents enjoyed the heavenly melodies that sprang from the Rev. Robert Bergt’s orchestras. Bergt died recently after decades of faithfully serving as ’s artist-in-residence.

A special concert in memory of Bergt will be held at the Chapel of St. Timothy and St. Titus on the Seminary campus. The concert is set for 3 p.m. Sunday.

Many well-known Johann Sebastian Bach pieces will be featured in the memorial concert. Featured pieces will include "Et Resurrexit" and "Cum Sancto Spiritu" from the Mass in B Minor. Finally, the congregation will join the American Kantorei in singing “Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus.”

The memorial concert will include a brief introduction and reflection given by Dr. Dale Meyer, president of the Seminary.

Bergt’s reputation as a musician extended far beyond Clayton; is accomplishments were recognized worldwide. Bergt founded the American Kantorei, the first group of its kind in the U.S. Since its inception, Bergt conducted the regular concert series Bach at the Sem.

As many as 1,000 people are expected to attend the memorial concert. Those unable to attend may listen to a broadcast of the concert at 1 p.m. Oct. 2 on KFUO 850 AM and Classic99.com.