Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols (followed by Holy Communion)

At the beginning of this service, the lights are lowered and the people stand. The choir begins to sing Once in royal David’s city from the back of the nave. (In the picture above from the Advent Procession three weeks ago, the choir was arranged similarly for come thou, Redeemer of the earth.) At the third verse, the congregation joins in singing and the choir and clergy process down the center aisle to the chancel.

The Rector gives the Bidding and the congregation says the Lord’s Prayer and then the service beautifully proceeds in a rotation of twelve carols and hymns interwoven among nine lessons.

The nine lessons are read by nine representatives of our parish: a Chorister, a Member of the Sunday School, a Gentleman of the Choir, the Director of Music, the Headmaster of the Choir School, a Member of the Congregation, a Warden of the Parish, a Priest of the Parish, and finally the Rector. Following the singing of Hark, the Herald Angels Sing, the choir exits during the playing of the voluntary. The gate to the ambulatory is then closed as the priests and acolytes prepare for a low mass at the High Altar. Those in the congregation wishing to stay on for communion remain in place. Those wishing to leave exit immediately through the Narthex doors. No foot traffic is allowed through the ambulatory during or following the Voluntary because of prepartions for the Eucharist.

‚ñ∫The Rector speaks about the Incarnation in his weekly audio message.

• Choral Services
• Worship Services