Christian Holiday Services
Christmas Services
51st annual Candlelight Festival of Lessons and Carols
Sun., Dec. 8, 2024, 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Cannon Memorial Chapel
In partnership with the Department of Music, the Chaplaincy will hold the 51st annual Candlelight Festival of Lessons and Carols on Sun., Dec. 8, 2024, in the Chapel. Two services will be offered - one at 5 p.m. and one at 8 p.m. The University's Schola Cantorum and James River Singers, will join Mary Beth Bennett and brass to present new and familiar Christmas carols and anthems in the tradition of the "Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols" that was first held at King's College Chapel in Cambridge, England, on Christmas Eve 1918. The services conclude with the lighting of candles by the congregation and the singing of "Silent Night." Prelude music will begin 20 minutes before each service. The concert is free, and seating is general admission. Register through the Modlin Center Box Office at the links provided.
Lend Thy Light: A Time of Reflection on the Season
Wed., Dec. 11, 2024, 12-1 p.m.
Cannon Memorial Chapel
Acknowledging the complexity of emotions involved in the Christmas season, the Chaplaincy offers Lend Thy Light, an hour-long Christian holiday service that provides time for reflection. Throughout the hour, a pianist plays and improvises on themes from sacred Christmas hymns and songs. A candle lighting station is available for those who wish to acknowledge prayers or intentions. Prompts are provided in the bulletin to help us consider our joys and thanksgivings, sorrows and hurts, and to remember in prayer those who have been significant in our journey this year. There is no formal liturgy or service, and you may come and go as your schedule allows. All are welcome.
Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday Service
Wed., March 5, 2025, 5-6 p.m.
Cannon Memorial Chapel
The Chaplaincy will offer an Ash Wednesday Service at 5 p.m. on March 5 in the Chapel. The service will include the blessing and imposition of ashes.
Holy Week and Easter Services
Palm Sunday Mass
Sun., April 13, 2025, 5-6 p.m.
Cannon Memorial Chapel
Palm Sunday Mass will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on April 13 in the Chapel. The service will begin with the blessing and procession of palms.
Good Friday Service
Fri., April 18, 2025, 12:30-1 p.m.
Cannon Memorial Chapel
The Chaplaincy will hold a Good Friday Service at 12:30 p.m. on April 18 in the Chapel. The 30-minute service will include a reading of the last seven words of Jesus.
Easter Sunrise Service
Sun., April 20, 2025, 6:15-7 a.m.
Columbarium Garden
The Chaplaincy will hold an Easter Sunrise Service on April 20 in the Columbarium and Memorial Garden, adjacent to the Chapel. The service will include scriptures, prayers, traditional Easter hymns, and a brief sermon. A light breakfast reception will follow in the Wilton Center Multifaith Room.
Easter Mass
Sun., April 20, 2025, 5-6 p.m.
Cannon Memorial Chapel
Easter Mass will be celebrated at 5 p.m. on April 20 in the Chapel.