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The season of Advent is traditionally a time of preparation for Christmas, and its observance dates from the sixth century in Gaul. These themes originate with the Jewish people, who first looked forward to the coming of God’s Kingdom when there would be a new order of justice and righteousness. The early Church saw that the Kingdom had been anticipated and experienced through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ, but still prayed “Thy Kingdom come,” looking forward to a second coming and the final consummation of all things.
The pattern of this service reflects the season’s growing anticipation, both of the first coming of Christ and of that day when the prayer “Thy Kingdom come” is finally and fully answered.
St. Paul's Choir provides beautiful anthems based on the themes of the readings. This year they will sing anthems by composers Palestrina, Vaughan Williams, Timothy Rogers, Judith Weir, James MacMillan, Herbert Howells, Egil Hovland, Sergeï Rachmaninoff, Felix Mendelssohn, and George Frideric Handel. Of these, Rogers, Weir, and MacMillan are still living and actively composing.
There will be a festive reception in The Undercroft following the service.
All are welcome!
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
605 Clay St, Lynchburg, VA, United States, Virginia 24504
