On the final Sunday of Semester, the College was filled with the joy and spirit of Christmas. This year’s Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols took place on the evening of 30 November, drawing a congregation of more than 150 guests and a festival choir of 45 voices. The Chapel was alive with beautiful carols and anthems, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
The service began with the choir singing outside before processing into the Chapel to the traditional medieval carol Gaudete in Latin. This was followed by the beloved Once in Royal David’s City and the Opening Prayer from the Warden. The nine lessons were then read, interspersed with music, by a distinguished group of readers:
- Lara Holburn (DSc), chorister and postgraduate
- Isabella Watson (BA/LLB I), chorister and undergraduate
- Orlando Throsby (BA/BAdvStud III), undergraduate
- Sarah Siegloff, Development Associate
- Prof Eric Knight, alumnus (in College 2002–05)
- Matthew Newcombe, Dean of Undergraduates
- Libby Albert, benefactor to the College
- Matthew Gerber, alumnus and Fellow (in College 1993–96, Senior Student 1996)
- Revd Antony Weiss, College Chaplain
The Choir and organ presented a stunning program, including:
- Mark Wilberg’s arrangement of Ding Dong! Merrily on High!
- June Nixon’s arrangement of The Holly and the Ivy
- Piers Kennedy’s setting of A Spotless Rose
- Morten Lauridsen’s O Magnum Mysterium
- Sir John Rutter’s The Shepherd’s Pipe Carol
- Philip Stopford’s exquisite Lully, Lulla, Lullay
Many of these pieces were reprises from the Choir’s recent internal tour, showcasing their exceptional talent.
Following the service, refreshments were served in the Quad for musicians, students, and guests. This early carol service is often described as “the real beginning of Christmas in Sydney”, and continues to attract strong support from Old Paulines and their families.
The Chaplain also paid tribute to the College Choir for their outstanding contribution throughout 2025. Drawn from both undergraduate and postgraduate students, along with many talented non-resident singers, the choir continues to delight audiences under the expert direction of Dr Jack Stephens.
