Adornment of the Faithful (Electronic Files Only Download)

“Adornment of the Faithful” is a breathtaking offering from the Vashon Monks, blending the ancient beauty of Orthodox hymnography with a prayerful stillness that transcends time and place. Rooted in the traditions of Byzantine and Slavic chant, this album is more than a listening experience — it is a vessel of grace, drawing the soul into quiet contemplation and reverent awe. Each track is imbued with simplicity and sincerity, reflecting the monastic heart of the brotherhood. The harmonies are rich yet restrained, never seeking to impress but always to edify. Whether you’re steeped in Orthodox liturgical life or discovering these sacred sounds for the first time, the music invites you to pray, reflect, and be still. The Vashon Monks have managed to capture something rare: a sonic icon, painted not with brushstrokes but with voices consecrated by faith. This album is not merely heard — it is felt, received, and remembered in the quiet corners of the heart. For those seeking a sacred soundtrack for prayer, study, or peace in a noisy world, Adornment of the Faithful is a gift — one to be returned to often.

Thank you for making these beautiful Chants available in English. As soon as I discovered them I was able to download and enjoy immediately. The voices of the monks make me feel like I'm in heaven.

This is simply a very prayerful and lovely CD. There are finer choirs, and more majestic voices for Orthodox music. But this one captures a small community at prayer and inspires one to pray in a very peaceful way. Well done brothers. I encourage people to buy their own copy.

This is such a beautiful recording in English. I love listening when I’m cooking or driving to keep my mind on God. Beautiful voices, as well. Thank you!

This music is fantastic! Beautifully performed and recorded.

This music brought me closer in unity with Christ, the Holy Spirit and God. When you listen, experience love, grace, peace, harmony, support, comfort, compassion, and joy in closeness to God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. This is so much more than beautiful music. You will feel your own spirit soar, and celebrate your new life in Christ.

Monk Martin Gardner was formerly the choir director and composer in residence at the Monastery of St. John of Shanghai and San Francisco in Manton, California. I was fortunate to be visiting the monastery as they were completing the recording of their CD: “The Eyes of All Look to Thee with Hope.” I have loved this quiet, peaceful recording for more than a decade. Now Monk Martin is at All Merciful Savior Monastery on Vashon Island, near Seattle. Last summer I asked him when he would be recording again, and at the time he was not hopeful that it would happen any time soon. Well, circumstances have changed and a new recording is out, and I love it! I couldn’t wait for the CD, which is still forthcoming, so I ordered the download. This recording is in the same tradition as the previous recording, mostly two male voices, and a few selections in 3 parts. It has the same peaceful quality that I have enjoyed. This is quiet, intimate and prayerful music.

I've been waiting for this cd to come out and I'm not disappointed. The sound quality, vocals, and arrangements are superb. If you are looking for music that will engage and help bring you into a place of worship and stillness, this is it. Favorites are The Cherubikon and The Hymns of Thanksgiving.