On a recent night in December, the Richmond community gathered in Cannon Memorial Chapel for the 50th annual Candlelight Festival of Lessons and Carols. Candlelight flickered and danced off brass bells held by the James River Ringers. Their chiming echoed throughout the sanctuary as they performed “The First Noel.”

The service is modeled after the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols that is held annually in King’s College Chapel at Cambridge University in England. UR’s service began in 1974 as a partnership between the office of the Chaplaincy and the department of Music. Over the years, the event has grown in popularity, and a second festival was added in 1997.

“I see many of the same faces year after year. I have seen children grow from little kids to young adults in the 15 years I’ve been a part of this service,” said Craig Kocher, University chaplain and Jessie Ball duPont Chair of the Chaplaincy. “My hope is that everyone who attends will leave with a deep sense of peace, hope, love, and joy that buoys their souls throughout the sacred season.”

Performers included junior Maddie Hitching and sophomore Zara Hertafeld, soloists, a brass band, and UR’s Schola Cantorum student choir.

“The Annual Candlelight Lessons and Carols gives our student vocal ensemble an opportunity to share their gifts and hard work with the campus and Greater Richmond communities,” said Jeffrey Riehl, professor of music and Schola Cantorum conductor.

As the service drew to a close, the chapel darkened. Ushers handed out candles, which were lit from person to person as the attendees joined in singing “Silent Night,” as they do every year.