Carol Service - A Celebration of Joy and Unity

4C Mak Long Hei, 5C Charles Lam

As Christmas approaches, streets, malls, and restaurants are often adorned with colourful decorations, brimming with anticipation and excitement. At St. Paul’s College, the oldest School founded by Sheng Kung Hui, the celebration of this joyous season includes the Carol Service.

This annual event, a long-standing tradition, brings teachers and students together to spread joy, kindness, and happiness. After three years of navigating the trials and tribulations brought by the pandemic, we are grateful and delighted that the Carol Service has resumed to its full scale at St. John's Cathedral. This cherished tradition now holds an even more significant meaning, as it reunites members of the SPC community to celebrate this occasion after a period of suspension and disruption.

On the early morning of December 20th, St John’s Cathedral opened its doors again to welcome students, teachers, and staff to this momentous event. The limited space available only served to enhance the spirit of camaraderie among the students. Excited whispers and thrilling chatter filled the air as schoolmates came together, their faces lit up by smiles and laughter.

In the blink of an eye, the service began with the resounding processional hymn, familiar to everyone’s ears, the well-known melody of Greensleeves. Following that, the Christ Candle of the Advent wreath was lit, signalling the start of the service.

The Christian Union, a dedicated group who willingly serve as God’s loyal servants and inheritors of Christ’s characteristics, played significant roles in the Carol Service whether crucifer and acolytes, or Bible readers, reciting the classic story of Jesus' birth.

Between different parts of the reading, the Junior Choir performed Were You There on That Christmas Night and Angels. Their angelic voices echoed throughout the cathedral, resonating in everyone’s hearts, captivating their attention, and evoking a sense of awe and wonder.

Our esteemed bishop, the Rt Revd Matthias Der, gave us valuable insight into God’s love and care, especially during the holy festival of Christmas. He graced the congregation by encouraging us to follow God’s words and share happiness with our friends and families. His words reminded everyone of the unconditional blessings granted us by our Father.

The service concluded with the recessional hymn, Joy to the World, with a group of the school brass ensemble performing the accompaniment to this piece. This piece once again spread the joy of Christmas within our school community, through its cheerful and uplifting melodies.

All in all, the Carol Service at St. John's Cathedral was a sacred yet festive celebration. Not only did it serve as a reminder of the profound significance of Christmas, but it also fostered a sense of unity among schoolmates and inspired them to continue their spiritual development. Without a doubt, this special event left an indelible mark on all those who attended, embracing the true essence of Christmas: God’s unrequited love.