Let Christmas Music Be Part of Your December
Some of the best moments of the Christmas season happen when we set aside the to-do list and simply listen.
On Sunday, December 13, at 4:00p, St. John’s Episcopal Church invites the Lynchburg community to A Festival of Christmas Lessons and Carols, an afternoon of scripture and choral music that brings the Christmas story into focus.
The St. John’s Parish Choir and Cantate Children’s and Youth Choir will join in presenting the festival, with Peggy Haas Howell, conductor and organist, and Randall Speer, conductor. Bringing together adult and young voices, this gathering offers a beautiful opportunity to enjoy choral music with family, friends, and neighbors.
The program will feature the spirited medieval carol “Gaudete,” along with carols by Adam Skempton, Philip Ledger, Ben Parry, Sarah Quartel, Harrison Oxley, Alan Bullard, James Whitbourn, and Philip Wilby. Through readings and music, Lessons and Carols invites us to hear the story of Christmas anew—and to spend a little time with its hope and joy.
You don’t need to know the music or be familiar with the tradition to enjoy the afternoon. Whether Lessons and Carols is a December favorite or something you’ve never experienced, we invite you to come listen.
Bring a friend who loves choral music. Gather the family for a seasonal outing. Or come on your own and let the voices and organ fill an hour of your December with something beautiful.
A Festival of Christmas Lessons and Carols
Sunday, December 13, 2026 | 4:00p
St. John’s Episcopal Church
205 Elmwood Avenue, Lynchburg, VA