ARTICLE: History of the ‘Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols’

The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is a cherished Christmas tradition that originated in England and has since gained worldwide recognition. Combining Bible readings with choral music, the festival tells the story of humanity’s fall, the promise of the Messiah, and the birth of Jesus Christ.

Origins in Truro, Cornwall

The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols was first held on Christmas Eve in 1880 at Truro Cathedral in Cornwall, England. It was created by Edward White Benson, who was then the Bishop of Truro and later became the Archbishop of Canterbury. Benson aimed to design a service that united the community in worship and celebrated the true meaning of Christmas through scripture and song. The original service was modest, intended to appeal to both churchgoers and non-churchgoers, and featured nine brief Bible readings (or “lessons”) interspersed with carols sung by both the choir and the congregation.

Development at King’s College, Cambridge

The tradition gained international prominence when it was adapted for King’s College, Cambridge, in 1918 by Eric Milner-White, the college’s Dean. Milner-White, a former army chaplain, believed that the service could offer solace and hope to a nation recovering from the devastation of World War I. He revised the original order of service slightly, maintaining the nine readings but selecting passages that formed a cohesive narrative of salvation, beginning with the Fall of Man in Genesis and culminating in the birth of Christ in the Gospels. The choral music became more elaborate, featuring compositions by some of the greatest sacred music composers.

The First Broadcast

In 1928, the BBC began broadcasting the service, bringing it to a much wider audience. The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols became a beloved part of Christmas for listeners worldwide, known for its peaceful atmosphere and the soaring voices of the King’s College Choir. The tradition of broadcasting the festival continues to this day, with millions tuning in each Christmas Eve.

Structure of the Service

The service begins with the hymn “Once in Royal David’s City,” traditionally sung by a boy chorister. The nine lessons are read by representatives from the community, including members of the choir, clergy, and college officials. Between the lessons, the choir performs a mix of traditional carols and contemporary pieces, showcasing the rich repertoire of sacred Christmas music.

Global Influence

The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols has inspired similar services in churches and cathedrals around the world. It remains a symbol of the universality of the Christmas message, uniting people through scripture, music, and the shared celebration of faith and joy.

Ghanaian Adaptation of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols

The Ghanaian version of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols closely follows the traditional format established at King’s College, Cambridge. It features nine Bible readings interspersed with carols and hymns that narrate the story of humanity’s fall, the promise of salvation, and the birth of Jesus Christ. However, Ghana’s unique cultural identity is reflected in the music and presentation. Traditional carols such as “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” are often performed alongside Ghanaian hymns and local gospel music, blending Western choral traditions with African rhythms and harmonies. Some services incorporate drumming, dancing, and performances in local languages, adding a festive and communal spirit to the occasion.

Venues and Celebrations

Churches: Many churches, including Catholic, Anglican, and Methodist congregations, host the festival as part of their Christmas celebrations. The service often draws large crowds, bringing congregants together in worship and reflection.

Schools: Educational institutions in Ghana frequently hold their own versions of the festival, involving students and staff in readings and musical performances. These events often mark the end of the school term and are eagerly anticipated by students and parents alike.

Corporate and Media Events: The festival has also been embraced by organisations and media houses, featuring performances by popular Ghanaian choirs, gospel artists, and public figures. These events are often broadcast live, reaching a nationwide audience.

In contemporary Ghanaian adaptations, performances are often infused with theatre and songs that may not directly relate to the birth of Christ or have biblical references. For some, the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols has become more than a religious observance; it’s a social and cultural event that fosters community and celebration. It provides an opportunity for people to come together, share in the joy of the season, and reflect on the spiritual significance of Christmas. Christians and dedicated followers of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols hold differing views on this divergence.

Conclusion

Despite the contemporary variations of the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, it remains an undisputed fact that it is closely tied to the birth of Jesus Christ, whom Christians believe is the Saviour of the world.

By: AMA NYAMEYE