Wittenberg looks forward to welcoming the campus and the extended community to its popular annual event, Lessons and Carols for Advent and Christmas, this Friday, Dec. 6, in historic Weaver Chapel.
Part of the 2024-2025 Wittenberg Series, the event is free and open to the public with entry starting at 6:45 p.m. Pre-service music provided by the University’s Brass Quintet will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the event at 7:30 p.m. As in previous years, the service will conclude with a candlelit singing of Silent Night.
The theme for the 2024 service is “His Light in Us,” according to Matevia Endowed University Pastor Tracy Paschke-Johannes. Multiple readings and performances will connect to the theme, celebrating God’s presence with creation through Jesus’ birth.
“Our theme ‘His Light in Us’ connects God’s people to the Christmas story,” Paschke-Johannes said. “Christ coming into the world is a gift to each one of us. The joy we experience shines brightly within God’s people, as we share the good news with others.”
The event will include readings by Wittenberg students and the singing of familiar Christmas hymns. Additionally, more than 50 musicians are expected to perform, including the Wittenberg Choir and the Wittenberg Singers directed by Dr. Elizabeth (Libby) Hainrihar, assistant professor of music and director of choral activities at Wittenberg.
Among this year’s readers are Claire Patton, class of 2026 from Mason, Ohio; Abby Anderson, class of 2026 from Buffalo, New York; Mikayla Myers, class of 2025 from Huron, Ohio; Shahra Johannes, class of 2028 from Centerville, Ohio; F. Nichole Kline, class of 2027 from Westerville, Ohio; Max Green, class of 2026 from Centerville, Ohio; and Scarlette Sullivan, class of 2027 from Madison, Ohio.
Lessons and Carols for Advent and Christmas began at Wittenberg in 1984. This beloved annual tradition centers on the light of Christ coming among people during the Advent season. “In an ever-changing world, we give thanks for God’s love, which never changes,” noted Paschke-Johannes.
This year’s Lessons and Carols program was designed by Nichole Kline, class of 2027, from Westerville, Ohio.
The Wittenberg Series was created in 1982 during President William A. Kinnison’s tenure. Since its inception, Nobel Laureates, scientists, significant literary figures, most of America’s foremost modern dance companies, as well as hundreds of prominent psychologists, educators, economists, writers, theologians, urban planners, and historians, have visited campus to participate.
All events of The Wittenberg Series are open to the public free of charge. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the beginning of each lecture or performance. Below are further details on the remaining events.
Upcoming 2024-2025 Wittenberg Series Events:
Monday, Jan. 20, 2025: Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation, 10:30 a.m. in Weaver Chapel, featuring Nic Stone, bestselling author of Dear Martin and racial and social justice advocate.
Thursday, April 24, 2025: Fred R. Leventhal Family Lecture, 7 p.m., Weaver Chapel, details forthcoming.
For more information on the Wittenberg Series, click here.
