An Advent Procession

Begin the season of Advent with a candlelit journey through word and song at An Advent Procession of Lessons and Carols, sung by the Schola Cantorum of St. James, Alex Benestelli, director. Rooted in Anglican tradition, this service begins in darkness with the story of creation and moves gradually toward light, tracing humanity’s longing for redemption through scripture, choral anthems, and timeless Advent hymns like “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” As the choir processes through the shadowed space, the flicker of candles and unfolding narrative invite reflection on both the birth of Christ and his return at the end of time.

This is not a concert, but a liturgy of movement and meaning—a ritual that begins in silence and deepening night, and ends in radiant hope. Each lesson and carol marks a step forward, from the garden to the prophets, to the angelic promise of Emmanuel. The beauty of the music is heightened by the gradual illumination of the church, echoing Advent’s central theme: light breaking into darkness. Join us for this powerful beginning to the Church year, where ancient words and sacred music guide us toward the coming Light.