The Rev. Blake Sawicky, the Vestry, and St. Mark’s Choir invite you to the Annual Service of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Originally instituted at Truro Cathedral in Cornwall, England, this service was based on a medieval vigil service and was adapted in the early twentieth century by the Very Rev. E.M. Millner-White, dean of King’s College Chapel, Cambridge, England. Since then, it has been sung annually in King’s College Chapel on Christmas Eve, and at St. Mark’s since 1942. The candlelit service opens with the traditional carol “Once in royal David’s city,” a bidding prayer, and the Lord’s Prayer. The story continues with the promise to Abraham, the assurance of the prophet Isaiah, the calling of Mary, the birth of Jesus, and ends with St. John’s unfolding of the great mystery of the Incarnation. Carols, familiar and unfamiliar, will be sung throughout the service.
A reception will be held following the service.
Early seating is advised. Parking is available in the parish lot at 2315 Ellsworth.
An offering is received for the work of St. Mark’s Choir Association.
Tax-deductible contributions may be made payable to St. Mark’s Choir Association.
https://www.aplos.com/aws/give/St_Marks_Choir_Association.
Congregational carols include:
Once in Royal David’s City
Lo, how a rose e’er blooming
Away in a Manger
God rest ye merry, gentlemen
O come, all ye faithful
Hark! the herald angels sing
Choir carols include:
John Jacob Niles/John Rutter: I wonder as I wander
Craig Phillips: Adam lay ybounden
Harold Friedell: Song of Mary
Benjamin Britten: There is no rose of such virtue from “A Ceremony of Carols”
Jaebon Hwang: Dormi Jesu!
Carolyn Jennings: Climb to the top of highest mountain
Will Todd: My Lord has come
Bob Chilcott: Mid-winter
Jonathan Dimmock will serve as organist.