Holiday service returns to Darlington this Sunday

The free event is open to the public and sponsored by the Darlington "Y" Cabinet, and will be led primarily by members of the student body.

 

The service revolves around nine biblical lessons that tell the story of the birth of Christ, with musical interludes between each narrative.

 

“This service is Darlington’s oldest and longest-standing one-school event,” said Sam Moss (‘63), Darlington’s dean of college guidance.

 

Among the service’s featured selections are traditional favorites like “We Three Kings” and “Sing We Now of Christmas,” as well as a special arrangement of John Rutter’s "Christmas Lullaby," performed by the school orchestra and concert choir.

 

"We do the same service every year," said Kim Tunnell, Darlington's director of fine arts. "It is different every time, though, because the energy and excitement comes from putting new faces into those parts." 

 

Although originally an Anglican church service, the Festival of Lessons & Carols has expanded to schools and universities worldwide that encompass a variety of affiliations. Darlington’s own presentation of Lessons & Carols was brought back in 1982 after a long absence.

“Darlington’s first service was very simple,” said Moss. “Over time, it has become a wonderful event where over 100 students participate.” 

 

Following the service, the congregation will sing carols outside as the Great Tree is lit alongside Silver Lake, a tradition that was started by the late Dr. and Mrs. E.L. Wright. Dr. Wright served as school headmaster from 1920-54, and as president from 1954-63.

 

After the tree has been lit, the public is also invited to hot chocolate and other refreshments nearby in the Cove.

 

The service originated more than 125 years ago in England, and was adopted in 1918 by King’s College, Cambridge University. Lessons & Carols became world-famous after the BBC began broadcasting the service in the late 1920s.

For those who are unable to attend, the Festival of Lessons & Carols will be streamed live on the web at www.darlingtonschool.org/carols where online guests can click “Watch Lessons & Carols Live.” Streaming will begin at 6:45 p.m., and a recording of the full service will be made available online. 

 

For additional information about the Festival of Lessons & Carols, contact Darlington School at 706-235-6051, or email communications@darlingtonschool.org.