Northwestern College to present Christmas Vespers

The Northwestern College music department will present its annual Christmas Vespers concerts Saturday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 8, at 3 p.m. in Christ Chapel. The events are free and open to the public.

The concerts will follow a traditional format of lessons and carols, combining nine Scripture readings with a blend of audience carols and ensemble numbers. All nine readings either prophesy or describe the birth of Christ, beginning with the creation and fall of man in Genesis and ending with John 1: “In the beginning was the Word…” Scripture readers will include ensemble musicians and members of the Northwestern College and Orange City communities.

Featured ensembles will be the A cappella Choir, under the direction of Dr. Thomas Holm; Women’s Choir, under the direction of Cindy Moeller; and Brass Ensemble and Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Angela Carlson.

MaryLou Wielenga, Northwestern’s organist, will accompany the audience carols, joined by the choirs and chamber orchestra. Carols will include favorites such as “Joy to the World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” and “Once in Royal David’s City,” among others.

“The Nine Lessons and Carols provide the audience with a rich and meaningful journey that combines the biblical narrative with new as well as familiar musical works,” says Dr. Thomas Holm, professor of music. “It promises to be a truly worshipful experience.”

Northwestern’s music department has a tradition of dynamic performances, outstanding faculty and standout educational experiences in an environment committed to glorifying God. Students can audition for one or more of 10 ensembles, having the opportunity to tour around the world and perform in the award-winning Christ Chapel.