Immanuel Batavia to host Lessons and Carols Service Dec. 3

Nearly 100 years ago, on Christmas Eve 1918, the first Service of Lessons and Carols was celebrated at Kings College, Cambridge. Since that first service was held, many churches have begun to celebrate this same type of service and it has become a tradition in many congregations.

The annual Service of Lessons and Carols at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Batavia marks the beginning of the Advent season.

The service begins as a string ensemble plays while the congregation fills the sanctuary. As silence falls, a lone voice begins to sing "Once in Royal David's City." The choir then processes as they sing along with the congregation.

The lessons begin with Genesis and Adam and Eve's fall into sin. You are reminded of how you have become heirs of this sin and that you desperately need a savior.

The carols and songs, sung by the adult choir and children's choirs, tell of this long journey. They sing of the needed savior. The string ensemble, bell choir and musicians join the voices to lift the hearts of every worshipper. Together, the musicians and congregation walk through the Old Testament and hear the prophets' promise of a savior. Travel together with Mary and Joseph as they wearily make their way to Bethlehem.

And at long last, sing of the birth of the long-awaited savior. In a lowly manger bed, gaze upon the face of Jesus, born for those … for us … who desperately need Him!

This service of Lessons and Carols centers your heart on the most important part of Advent - preparing for the birth of Christ our Savior.

The Service of Lessons and Carols will be offered in two services, 4 and 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 950 Hart Road in Batavia. For details, call (630) 879-7163 or visit immanuelbatavia.org.