Performed by Franciscan University student choirs and conducted by Dr. Vincent E. Rone, the service leads us through salvation history from the fall of Adam to the Incarnation, encouraging us to reflect on the great love and mercy of the God who “so loved the world that he gave his only Son” for us (John 3:16). May this Advent Lessons & Carols service inspire and prepare us all to celebrate Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with great joy this Christmas.

History of Advent Lessons & Carols

Advent Lessons & Carols traces its roots to the cathedral town of Truro, England, in 1880. It then migrated to King’s College in Cambridge in 1918, where it has been offered every year since then in December. Franciscan University of Steubenville has made this service a community tradition for decades as a lovely way to remember what God in his mercy has done for his people.

Director and Conductor

Dr. Vincent E. Rone serves as an associate professor of fine arts, the program director of sacred music, and the director of choral activities at Franciscan University of Steubenville. He also directs music at the Catholic parish of Archangel Gabriel in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Organist

Professor Ian Brown is an adjunct professor of fine arts at Franciscan University of Steubenville and director of music at Divine Mercy Roman Catholic Parish in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Student Ensembles

Christ the King Chapel Choir: Luke Schroeder, Director

Women’s Choir: Dr. Vincent E. Rone, Director and Conductor; Anna Eby, Assistant Conductor

Schola Cantorum Franciscana: Dr. Vincent E. Rone, Director and Conductor

Special Thanks to Our Gracious Host

St. Joseph the Worker Parish, Weirton, West Virginia