Chi Rho
Chi Rho 2026
October 23-24
Central Lutheran Church
Join us for a weekend of study with Dr. Lindsey Henriksen Rodgers and explore the ways that the pipe organ forms sacred community, through the spoken word, hands-on exploration, and musical meditation.
Lead, Wood, Air, Flesh, and Bone: Musical Elements of Sacred Space
Friday, October 23, 7pm
Our kickoff evening will feature an interactive presentation exploring the role of the pipe organ in forming sacred communities. The program will focus on the organ both practically and imaginatively: an object that is equally a functional musical instrument, an exquisite piece of artisanal craftsmanship, and a symbol of multi-faceted human cooperation.
All Ages Pipe Organ Exploration
Saturday, October 24, 10am
Come discover how a pipe organ works! In addition to learning about the renowned Brombaugh organ at Central, participants young and old will be able to build a real, functioning pipe organ. The "Do-Organ" kit, on loan from OrgelKids USA, contains 133 parts that groups can assemble under one hour, bringing the science, engineering, and music of the instrument to life.
Organ Vespers
Saturday, October 24, 4pm
Central's Organ Vespers series features meditative programs interspersing organ music and poetry. This Organ Vespers will focus on the pipe organ as a source of poetic imagination, one that often symbolizes community and interdependence.
Biography: Dr. Lindsey Henriksen Rodgers
Dr. Lindsey Henriksen Rodgers is Assistant Teaching Professor of Musicology and Organ at the University of Oregon. She is a musicologist and organist whose work combines academic research and professional performance. She serves as Associate Organist and Children's Choir Director at Central Lutheran Church in Eugene, Oregon, where she has worked since 2006. She is the past dean of the Eugene Chapter of the American Guild of Organists.
About Chi Rho
Chi Rho is an ecumenical annual weekend of study hosted by Central Lutheran Church with participation and support from Bushnell University and many community donors and churches. Each year a well-known scholar of Christianity is brought to Eugene to lead a weekend of study, dialogue, and theological reflection.