Dear People of Faith,
This past week I was asked the question, “Is there a sermon at the Lessons and Carols service?” My answer was one of those "It depends” answers. According to the rubrics of the service found in the Book of Occasional Services (BOS), when Holy Communion follows the lessons and the singing of the carols, then the answer is “Yes.” When there is no Holy Communion, the answer is “No.” The text goes on to inform the reader that the lessons read at the service—is the sermon. In other words, “… the story of God’s loving purpose from the time of our rebellion against him until the glorious redemption brought to us by his holy Child Jesus …” (BOS, p. 24)
So, this Sunday those who are in attendance will hear how Adam and Eve rebel against God and are cast out of the Garden of Eden, the Prophet Isaiah’s words that the Christ-Child will come and save us and be known as “God with us!” We will listen to the angel’s annunciation to both Elizabeth and to Mary, and hear of the shepherds visiting the Baby Jesus. We will bear witness to his presentation in the Temple in Jerusalem.
This is a beautiful story of the God’s relationship with his people and the never ending of God’s love and salvation for all told not only by scripture but also in music with the carols that are sung. The service of Nine Lessons and Carols was first held on Christmas Eve in 1880 at Truro Cathedral in Cornwall, England. It was created by Edward White Benson, who later became the Archbishop of Canterbury. The service was designed to provide a meaningful alternative to the festive spirit prevalent in local pubs, encouraging worship and reflection instead.
For many in the Protestant Mainline denominations, this is a service that is looked forward to each Advent season. While the service was traditionally called the Nine Lessons and carols, the rubrics in the BOS state “Nine Lessons are customarily selected (but fewer may be used).” (BOS, p.25) The word “may” allows the priest to determine the length of any service by either eliminating or adding an element to the worship experience.
I pray that your experience of the Lessons and Carols service will be both meaningful and joyful. My heartfelt thanks to the band for their dedication and for the beautiful music that enriches this celebration. And, in my humble opinion, one can never sing too many Christmas carols!
Blessings,
Rev. Anne