11 December 2024
On Monday 9 December, in the magnificent Westminster Cathedral, Mrs Baillie welcomed everyone to Woldingham’s Carol Service. More than 1000 students, staff, parents, families, alumnae and guests gathered in the Cathedral for the beautiful service of readings, carols, music and prayer, joined by many others watching live online around the world.
Through seven readings, Head Girl Onome, Sacred Heart Ribbon Andrea, Nithali, Phoebe, Feramni, Mrs Baillie and Mr Smith told the Christmas story, while our musicians and choirs, with choirs from St Francis’ Catholic Primary, Caterham, and St Mary’s School, Hampstead, filled the Cathedral with wonderful music, including There is No Rose by Benjamin Britten, Night of Silence and Silent Night by Daniel Cantor, and Ivy, Chief of Trees, It Is composed by Year 11 music scholar Kiara. Music Ribbon Keira sang a wonderful solo first verse of Once in Royal David’s City and Maya and Sophia performed lovely solo and duet elements of O Holy Night with the Senior Choir.
Before choirs and congregation gave full voice to the final hymn, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Fr Gerry prayed for peace and justice in the world and wished everyone a happy and joyful advent and every blessing for Christmas and the coming new year.
A recording of the service can be viewed here.
