Replacing our service of Choral Evensong we have a traditional candlelit service of Advent Carols sung by our Boys, Girls, Clerks and Scholars.
Our service combines the great O Antiphons with a journey from darkness into light. The antiphons, or introductory sentences, are traditionally sung before the Magnificat at Evening Prayer from December 17th to 23rd. They contain a rich source of devotional imagery, filled with the Advent hope.
During the service, lights will be lit on the nave altar as the antiphons are sung. The candlelight reminds us that the Jesus to whom we look is the light of the world—a light that shines out of and into the darkness. As we move gradually towards the High Altar, where our final light is lit, our gaze is drawn to the east as we look for the sunrise.
This service is part of the long tradition in the English church of vivid Advent services, whose purpose is to help us as we prepare for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, and for that day when he will come again. Advent is a time of watching and waiting.

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