Joyful sounds of holiday worship and cheer enveloped Lower School students, faculty and parents as they gathered in the Central Moravian Church for Vespers on December 18^th. The 5^th grade bells began the service with the traditional hymns Angels We Have Heard on High and Away in a Manger. 

After the students entered the church singing Once in Royal David’s City, each grade took its turn on the risers, singing songs that varied from African American spirituals to a traditional Czech carol. Both the Pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classes participated as well, delighting the congregation with their performances. 

Some special highlights of the service included the Middle School Strings’ presentation of an English carol from the balcony of the church. Director of Music Patrice Kidd and Organist Lou Carol Fox played a piano and organ duet of Joy to the World. The 5^th grade Morning Star soloists then turned to the congregation and with beeswax candles in hand, took turns singing a verse of the beloved carol. It was agreed upon by many that this Vespers service was a beautiful reminder of the holiday spirit we all share this time of year.