Lessons and Carols is a service of Christian worship traditionally celebrated in Advent season. The story of the fall of humanity, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus is told in nine short Bible readings or lessons from Genesis to the Gospels, interspersed with the singing of Christmas carols, hymns, and praise anthems.

After World War I, Eric Milner-White, who had served as an army chaplain during the war, was concerned that the distress of the conflict had hardened attitudes in his fellow citizens. Taking advantage of the established tradition of this service, he introduced this worship service at King’s College, Cambridge in 1918 as a means of attracting people to Christian worship. Since then, this worship service has spread to many denominations and traditions as a beautiful culmination of the Christmas season.

This Christmas Eve, Grace will host its own Lessons and Carols. The story of Christmas is best told by God Himself in His own words. After hearing His message, His people’s natural response is to sing His praises. The whole family is encouraged to join us in this worship time where we will hear the Scripture read and respond in praise to the One who loves us.