The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols begins in darkness, symbolizing the world’s wait for redemption. The choir enters, singing Once in Royal David’s City. This traditional service weaves nine biblical lessons with carols and prayers, recounting humanity’s redemption story from Genesis to Luke. It’s a cherished Christmas Eve tradition worldwide.
Overview of the Service
The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols is a traditional Christian worship format that combines biblical readings and carols to tell the story of redemption. It begins in darkness, symbolizing the world’s anticipation of salvation, and progresses through nine lessons from Genesis to Luke, tracing humanity’s fall and redemption through Christ. Each lesson is followed by a carol or hymn, reflecting on the scripture and expressing worship. The service typically includes prayers, such as the Bidding Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer, and concludes with a final hymn and dismissal. This format, adaptable to various settings, emphasizes community participation and spiritual reflection, making it a beloved part of Advent and Christmas celebrations worldwide.
Historical Background
The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols traces its origins to Truro Cathedral in Cornwall, England, on Christmas Eve in 1880. It was created by E.W. Benson, then Bishop of Truro, as a unique way to engage his congregation with a blend of scripture and music. The first service featured nine lessons, spanning from Genesis to Luke, interspersed with carols and prayers. Initially designed to keep parishioners warm and attentive on a cold evening, the format quickly gained popularity. By 1918, King’s College, Cambridge, adapted the service, further cementing its place in Christian tradition. Today, it remains a beloved global practice, celebrated in churches of various denominations, while retaining its core elements: the storytelling of redemption through scripture and the communal celebration of faith through music.
Structure of the Service
The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols follows a structured format, blending biblical readings with musical performances. The service begins in darkness, symbolizing the world’s wait for redemption, and transitions into light as the story of salvation unfolds. Nine lessons from Scripture are interspersed with carols, often sung by the choir or congregation. The lessons trace the narrative of humanity’s redemption, from the Fall in Genesis to the birth of Jesus in Luke. Traditional carols like Once in Royal David’s City and Of the Father’s Love Begotten are integral to the service, fostering a sense of communal worship. The structure emphasizes the interplay between word and song, creating a reflective and joyful atmosphere. This format has remained largely unchanged since its inception, ensuring its timeless appeal and spiritual significance during the Advent season.
The Order of Service
The service begins with a welcome and introduction, followed by the Bidding Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer. Nine lessons are interspersed with carols, including Once in Royal David’s City and Puer Natus in Bethlehem, accompanied by organ music.
The Service of Nine Lessons and Carols begins with a warm welcome to all worshippers. The rector or chaplain offers an introduction, setting the tone for the service. The congregation is invited to stand as the choir enters, singing the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City. This opening carol, led by a soloist, symbolizes the humble birth of Jesus. The rector then provides a brief talk, emphasizing the significance of the service as a retelling of the redemption story through scripture and song. The atmosphere is one of anticipation and reflection, preparing all for the journey from darkness to light, culminating in the celebration of Christ’s birth. This traditional format unites worshippers globally, fostering a sense of community and shared faith during the Advent season.
Bidding Prayer and The Lord’s Prayer
The service transitions into a Bidding Prayer, led by the rector, inviting worshippers to seek God’s presence and peace. This prayer calls for guidance, comfort, and the renewal of faith. Following the Bidding Prayer, the congregation joins in reciting the Lord’s Prayer, a unifying moment of shared devotion. These prayers establish a sacred atmosphere, preparing the hearts of all for the lessons and carols that follow. The Bidding Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer serve as a spiritual foundation, emphasizing themes of forgiveness, mercy, and divine will. This segment is a poignant reminder of the service’s purpose: to reflect on humanity’s redemption through scripture and song. The prayers foster a sense of unity and readiness among the congregation for the journey through the story of salvation.
First Lesson: Genesis 3:8-15
The first lesson, read from Genesis 3:8-15, recounts the story of Adam and Eve’s disobedience in the Garden of Eden. This passage marks the beginning of humanity’s separation from God, setting the stage for the story of redemption. The lesson describes how Adam and Eve hid from God after eating the forbidden fruit, leading to their expulsion from the garden. This reading establishes the foundational narrative of sin and its consequences, which the subsequent lessons and carols will address through the promise of salvation. The choice of Genesis 3:8-15 underscores the service’s theme of humanity’s need for redemption, intertwining the biblical account with the celebration of Jesus’ birth as the redeemer. This lesson is traditionally read at the start of the service to provide context for the story of salvation that unfolds.
Carol: “Once in Royal David’s City”
“Once in Royal David’s City” is a beloved Christmas carol that follows the first lesson, marking the transition from the story of creation to the promise of redemption. Sung by the choir, the carol narrates the humble birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, emphasizing his divine mission. The lyrics vividly depict the manger scene, contrasting the simplicity of Jesus’ arrival with his royal lineage and divine purpose. This carol traditionally features a soloist for the first verse, with the choir joining for subsequent verses, creating a powerful and emotive rendition. It serves as a bridge between the Old Testament narrative and the New Testament fulfillment, setting the tone for the journey toward salvation. The carol’s timeless melody and profound lyrics resonate deeply, enriching the spiritual atmosphere of the service.
Second Lesson: Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
The second lesson from Isaiah 9:2, 6-7 foretells the coming of a great light to a people in darkness. It speaks of a child born, a son given, named Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and Prince of Peace, whose government will never end. This prophecy points to Jesus Christ as the fulfillment of God’s promise of redemption and eternal peace. The passage transitions from the initial lessons of humanity’s fallen state to the hope of salvation through the Messiah. It is read after the first carol, “Once in Royal David’s City”, and precedes the next carol, “Jesus Christ, the Apple Tree”, creating a narrative flow from promise to fulfillment. This lesson deepens the spiritual reflection, highlighting God’s faithfulness and the joy of Christ’s arrival.
Carol: “Jesus Christ, the Apple Tree” by Elizabeth Poston
“Jesus Christ, the Apple Tree,” composed by Elizabeth Poston, is a beloved carol that follows the second lesson. Its lyrics draw on traditional imagery, likening Christ to an apple tree, symbolizing nourishment and life. The carol’s serene melody and harmony evoke a sense of peace and wonder, reflecting on Christ’s redeeming love. Sung by the choir, it bridges the prophecy of Isaiah with the upcoming lessons, deepening the narrative of salvation. Poston’s arrangement is cherished for its simplicity and theological richness, making it a timeless piece in the Nine Lessons and Carols tradition.
Lessons and Carols
The service continues with the third lesson from Micah, foretelling Bethlehem’s significance, followed by the carol “Of the Father’s Love Begotten.” The fourth lesson, Luke’s annunciation, precedes “Puer Natus in Bethlehem.”
Third Lesson: Micah 5:2-5
The third lesson, drawn from Micah 5:2-5, prophesies the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem. It emphasizes Bethlehem’s small stature but highlights its significance as the birthplace of the Messiah. The passage underscores God’s promise of a ruler who will bring peace and justice, reflecting the hope of redemption. Following this lesson, the carol “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” is sung, a hymn that celebrates the eternal nature of Christ and His incarnation. This carol, with its rich theological depth, connects the prophecy of Micah to the fulfillment in Jesus, deepening the congregation’s reflection on God’s plan of salvation. The interplay between scripture and song enriches the narrative of redemption, central to the service.
Carol: “Of the Father’s Love Begotten”
“Of the Father’s Love Begotten” is a timeless Christmas hymn that follows the third lesson from Micah. This carol, rooted in ancient Christian theology, reflects on the eternal nature of Christ and His divine origin. Its lyrics, often attributed to Aurelius Prudentius, emphasize the mystery of the Incarnation and the joy of salvation. Sung traditionally during the Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, it serves as a profound meditation on the prophecy fulfilled in Jesus’ birth. The hymn’s rich imagery and haunting melody evoke a sense of awe and reverence, connecting the congregation to the deeper spiritual truths of the season. It is a moment of reflection and worship, bridging the Old Testament prophecy with the New Testament fulfillment.
Fourth Lesson: Luke 1:26-38
The fourth lesson, read from Luke 1:26-38, recounts the Annunciation to the Virgin Mary by the angel Gabriel. This passage marks the pivotal moment when Mary learns she will bear Jesus, the Son of God. The lesson emphasizes Mary’s faith and obedience, as she responds, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” This reading transitions the service from prophecy to fulfillment, highlighting the divine initiative in the Incarnation. The passage is often followed by the carol “Puer Natus in Bethlehem”, which joyfully celebrates the birth of Jesus. This lesson is central to the narrative of redemption, showcasing God’s plan to bring salvation through the birth of His Son. It deepens the congregation’s reflection on the mystery of faith and divine grace.
Carol: “Puer Natus in Bethlehem” by Dietrich Buxtehude
“Puer Natus in Bethlehem” by Dietrich Buxtehude is a beautiful Baroque-era composition that follows the fourth lesson. This carol, with its Latin text, celebrates the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, blending rich harmonies and intricate organ accompaniment. Buxtehude’s arrangement captures the joy and mystery of the Incarnation, reflecting the divine promise fulfilled in Christ’s birth. The piece is often performed with an organ prelude, creating a meditative atmosphere that complements the biblical narrative. This carol transitions the service from the Annunciation to the Nativity, deepening the congregation’s spiritual reflection. Its traditional melody and theological depth make it a cherished part of the Nine Lessons and Carols tradition, enriching the storytelling of redemption through music. The carol’s timeless beauty continues to inspire worship and contemplation during the Advent season.
The service concludes with a final hymn and prayer, expressing gratitude and joy for the redemption story. A dismissal and blessing are offered, sending the congregation forth in peace and celebration of Christ’s birth.
Final Hymn and Prayer
The service transitions to a final hymn, often The service concludes with a final dismissal and blessing, where the congregation is sent forth into the world. The priest or minister offers a heartfelt benediction, often invoking God’s peace and grace upon all present. This moment serves as a spiritual commissioning, encouraging participants to carry the message of hope and redemption into their lives. The dismissal is typically accompanied by a final blessing, emphasizing God’s continued presence and guidance. As the service ends, the choir and ministers depart, leaving the congregation with a sense of joy and renewed faith. The dismissal and blessing are integral to the service, providing a meaningful conclusion to the journey through Scripture and song.Dismissal and Blessing