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Lessons and Carols

  • St. John's Episcopal Church 100 Chapel Street Portsmouth, NH, 03801 (map)

You are invited to a Service of Lessons and Carols on Sunday, December 15 at 5:00pm. This service is free and open to the public!

Children are always welcome at church beside their families, and this is a particularly magical service, full of storytelling, music, and candlelight.

A festive reception follows the service in Thaxter Hall. Please bring something to contribute. May we create a crowded table together, and may our joy be shared this season.

The Festival of Lessons and Carols is a cherished service of Scripture and song, a tradition that stretches back to the late 19th century. This sacred gathering invites us to journey through the story of God’s redeeming love, as told in Scripture.

Through carefully chosen lessons, we hear of humanity’s longing and hope: from the Fall in Eden to the promise of a Messiah, the mystery of the Incarnation, and the call to share the Good News with all creation. After each lesson, our voices and hearts respond with a carol or anthem, weaving prayer and music into a tapestry of wonder and joy.

Come and join us in this timeless celebration—a moment to reflect, rejoice, and let the story of Christ’s love shape our Advent and Christmas journey. Whether you come seeking peace, inspiration, or simply a quiet pause in the season’s busyness, all are welcome.

Earlier Event: December 15
Holy Eucharist Rite Two
Later Event: December 16
Breakfast Club