Free
reservations open Nov. 20; Dec. 1 & 2 services to be streamed live from
Greene Chapel
CONWAY, Arkansas (November 16,
2023) – For six decades, the Hendrix College Choir’s Candlelight Carol Service
has marked the start of the holiday season for many in Arkansas and the broader
Hendrix community. The 2023 Candlelight Carol Services continue this beloved
tradition while also introducing new music to those who attend. Services in
Greene Chapel on the Hendrix College campus (building 13 on the current campus map) will take place Nov. 30, Dec.
1-2 at 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 3 at 4 p.m. While there is no admission charge, reservations
are strongly recommended because of limited seating for the on-campus services;
seats may be reserved online at www.hendrix.edu/candlelight starting Monday, Nov. 20, at
9 a.m.
This year, the choir will make
tour stops Dec. 14 at First United Methodist Church of Fort Smith; and Dec. 15
at First United Methodist Church of Benton. Both tour services begin at 7:30
p.m. and do not require reservations.
In-person attendance is not
the only option for those wishing to experience the Candlelight Carol Service.
The service will be streamed live from Greene Chapel at www.hendrix.edu/candlelight on Friday, Dec. 1 and
Saturday, Dec. 2.
The Candlelight Carol Service
at Hendrix shares many features with the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
celebrated each Christmas Eve since 1918 at King’s College in Cambridge,
England. The scripture lessons, taken from Old and New Testaments, weave a
narrative from Adam’s fall into sin, through the prophecies of Christ’s coming,
and culminating in Christ’s birth. The carols performed between the lessons
change yearly, and offer opportunities for reflection, exultation, and
celebration. A vibrant tradition, the Candlelight Carol Service includes familiar
hymns, music that spans several centuries, and pieces by living composers. This
year’s service includes the world premiere piece Mystic Carol by Laurel
Luke Christensen.
About Hendrix College
Founded in 1876, Hendrix College is featured
in Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think
About Colleges and celebrated among the country’s leading liberal arts colleges
for academic quality, engaged learning opportunities and career preparation,
vibrant campus life, and value. The Hendrix College Warriors compete in 21 NCAA
Division III sports. Hendrix has been affiliated with the United Methodist
Church since 1884. Learn more at www.hendrix.edu.
“… Through engagement that links the classroom with the world, and
a commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice, and sustainable living, the
Hendrix community inspires students to lead lives of accomplishment, integrity,
service, and joy.” —Hendrix
College Statement of Purpose