An Advent Procession with Lessons and Carols

The Cathedral’s Advent worship service uses a series of short scripture readings (lessons) to tell the story of God's promise of a Messiah, alternating with carols, hymns, choral music and organ music that reflect on that story. The service is designed to build a sense of anticipation for Christmas and focus on themes of creation, the fall of humanity, redemption, and the coming of Christ. The service begins with an organ prelude performed on the Cathedral's magnificent pipe organ and includes congregational singing and choral music, creating a contemplative and reflective experience for the season of Advent.

Works to be performed include:

The Great O Antiphons
Richard Marlow, Advent Responsory
“Lo, he comes with clouds descending” Helmsley
Boris Ord, Adam lay ybounden
“Savior of the nations, come!” Nun komm, der Heiden Heiland
Paul Manz, E’en so, Lord Jesus, quickly come
“Come, thou Redeemer of the earth” Puer nobis
Lucy Walker, There is no rose
“Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming” Es ist ein Ros entsprungen
Kerensa Briggs, O clavis David
“The great forerunner of the morn” The Truth from above
Melissa Dunphy, O Oriens
Benjamin Britten, A hymn to the Virgin
Anton Bruckner, Ave Maria à 7
Herbert Howells, Magnificat from Gloucester Service
Paul Mealor, A spotless rose
“O come, O come, Emmanuel” Veni, Veni Emmanuel