A lesson in carols

Being a guest in someone’s home at Christmas means the joy of participating in the traditions of the family. It’s a chance to experience new things and to learn new lessons. In fact, today’s tradition shared was a lesson, indeed. A lesson in carols, that is.

A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is a radio programme recorded at the King’s College Chapel in Cambridge. It has run since 1918 and is the traditional start to Christmas for Rebecca’s family. As I sat there curled up in a chair, the fire crackling on the other side of the room, I listened with joy as the readings were read and the carols were sung. I don’t know if future Christmases will include a lesson in carols, but I am glad to have had the opportunity to participate in what is obviously an important part of someone’s Christmas tradition today.

Then, after the programme, we enjoyed a light Christmas Even meal before Rebecca and I headed off to Midnight Mass (held at 8 o’clock, funnily enough) where we got to do some carol singing of our own. Because, after all, as a Good Catholic Girl, I can’t pass on my tradition of Christmas Eve Mass.

So, how about you? Are there any new traditions you’re participating in this year?

3 Replies to “A lesson in carols”

  1. Sounds like you had a great time. I’m glad that you have a friend like Rebecca to share the holidays with! 🙂 We’re getting ready to head out to Javier’s sister’s for a nice meal and good fun before heading to Midnight Mass (at 11:00) to sing some carols. Merry Christmas, sis!! Love you!

  2. Along with the tradition of gathering with my cousins & Josh’s family, I think we may have started a new one this year of having Grandma & Grandpa(Josh’s folks) come stay Christmas Eve & then wake up to do presents & Christmas breakfast!

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