Community Gathers for Annual Lessons and Carols Service

On the evening of Friday, December 9, the Episcopal community gathered in Callaway Chapel to celebrate the start of the holiday season...
On the evening of Friday, December 9, the Episcopal community gathered in Callaway Chapel to celebrate the start of the holiday season through “An Advent Service of Lessons and Carols.” Episcopal’s head chaplain, the Rev. Betsy Gonzalez, led the service, along with assistant chaplains The Rev. Preston B. Hannibal and the Rev. Dr. Thomas C. Hummel.

The way the School schedule plays out in December limits the community's ability to fully embrace and celebrate the season, explained Rev. Gonzalez, which makes Lessons and Carols all the more important.

"For our community, I also think it embodies the Advent idea of preparation and anticipation. As the Christian church anticipates the coming of Christ every year, we, too, are preparing for and anticipating exams, a break from school, and time with family and friends."

Episcopal’s Concert Choir and Orchestra performed throughout the evening, conducted by Director of Choral Music Brent Erstad and Director of Instrumental Music Mark Carter. They were accompanied by organist Christopher Betts. Students Samba Soumare ‘20, Camden Alford ‘17, Guy Thomas ‘17, Kaycie Wang ‘17 and Alexander Block ‘17 led the community through a series of readings. Head of School Charley Stillwell and Assistant Head for Academics Mary Fielder also offered readings.

The service concluded with the congregation joining the choir in a candlelit chorus of Silent Night.

See photos from the evening here and watch the full Lessons and Carols service on Bleachers.
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