Lessons and Carols: Strengthening Spirituality
Lessons and Carols is an annual Advent observance when students, faculty, staff and parents engage in deeper reflection about the true meaning of the season. Steeped in tradition, the event is based on a format established in the late 1800s by the Archibishop of Canterbury. The liturgy consists of scripture readings interspersed with songs and prayers. Although Anglican in origin, Lessons and Carols has been adapted by Roman Catholic, Lutheran and other Christian churches around the world.
Campus life takes on renewed vibrancy at The Summit during the Advent season. A happy place, The Summit becomes a little more joyful. A caring place becomes a little more compassionate. A forgiving place becomes a little less judgmental. And a spiritual place becomes a little more divine.
Students prepare for Lessons and Carols with energy and reverence. The service begins with a candlit processional. Students, faculty, staff and parents take turns reading the lessons – scriptural readings which reflect on the fall of humanity, promise of the Messiah and birth of Jesus. Choirs from the seventh and eighth grades join the Upper School Chorale and Summit Camerata to provide musical interludes. The celebration ends with a candlelit recessional. Performances show deep and persistent links to our legacy and to the spiritual backbone of the Summit community. The greater Summit community comes together in peace to express gratitude for our many blessings.
The Lessons and Carols experience reminds us of one gift everyone here has in common: The Summit. Parents have generously given their children an opportunity to grow in grace and wisdom here. Teachers and staff feel privileged to serve in this learning community where spiritual, academic, physical, social and artistic growth are emphasized.
The Summit is our collective blessing.
