Lessons and Carols Lift Spirits

Spirits were soaring as the Canterbury family came together once again for “An Advent Festival of Seven Lessons and Carols,” the annual celebration of the blessings and joy of the Christmas holiday in the Chapel of Our Lady. This time-honored tradition of Scripture and song is one of the most cherished events on the hilltop.

Following a musical prelude, Head of School Rachel Stone P ’23, ’24 welcomed the community. “The Festival of Lessons and Carols is a Christian tradition that dates to the late 19th century,” she shared. “Please join me in taking a moment during this busy time of year to put away the distractions of our lives and listen to the stories, enjoy the music, and together pause and be present for the spirit of Advent.”

Fr. Mark Connell presided as festive voices sang out and a number of students, faculty, and staff read lessons throughout the evening. 

Students from our Carillon Guild, Chamber Ensemble, Orchestra, and Varsity Voices contributed their talents to the evening’s music, and carols included O Come All Ye Faithful; Hark the Herald Angels Sing; Silent Night, Holy Night; and Joy to the World. The musicians and singers were led by Performing Arts Department Chair Sarah Armstrong and Music Teacher Hafez Taghavi. 

Rachel summed up the celebration perfectly: “There is a special joy in gathering as a community in the Chapel of Our Lady, in fellowship and by candlelight.”

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