The Festival, which celebrates the birth of Jesus, is told in nine short Bible readings from Genesis, the prophetic books and the Gospels, interspersed with the singing of Christmas carols, hymns, and choir music.
The Festival is traditionally celebrated at St. John Cantius after first Vespers of Gaudete Sunday. It is concluded with exposition and benediction of the Most Blessed Sacrament, and is thus a splendid way for the participants to prepare for the coming of Christ on Christmas.
St. John Cantius Church is pleased to invite one and all to our annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
The 19th Annual Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols will be held on Saturday, December 16 at 7:00 p.m. Join us for the Fundraiser Reception and Concert which begins with wine and hors d'oeuvres at 5:00 p.m. and includes reserved seating for the concert. Place a commemorative Ad in our Ad book and join us for the concert at 7:00 p.m.!
This much-anticipated event features voices uplifted in song, and spirits uplifted with tradition and reverence. This century-old tradition blends Sacred Scripture and Sacred Music. It is a cherished event for our church, our community, and beyond.
Enjoy singing classic carols with our choirs accompanied by our massive Casavant Pipe Organ, named the Richard Ryan organ. Hear the Christmas story read from the famous “nine lessons” taken from the Bible. Let your heart be warmed by youthful voices of our Magnificat Choir. Start your Christmas celebration right with beautiful Christmas Music from St. John Cantius, as the stunning voices of our St. Cecilia Choir sing to the Infant Lord of Bethlehem.
Event Information: 5:00 p.m. Reception in Parish Hall
7:00 pm Organ Prelude
7:30 pm Lessons & Carols Service
Ticket Information:
$15 (Adult)
$10 (Seniors [60 and over] and Student ID)
$5 (Youth 6-18)
Tickets will also be available at the door. Doors open at 6 pm.
NB: Members of Religious Orders in habit, as well as members of the U.S. Armed Forces in uniform and first responders, will receive free admission to the music program.