Ashland University Plans Festival of Lights

Ashland University will officially begin its observance of the holiday season with the 19th annual Festival of Lights on Nov. 22 in Ashland University’s Jack and Deb Miller Chapel, located at the intersection of King Road and College Avenue.

The 7 p.m. candlelight service, which is free and open to the public, symbolizes Christ coming into the world. The story is communicated in verse and song. It will include seasonal readings and musical selections by the Ashland University Choir and Women’s Chorus, and the Ashland Area Chorus. Doors will open at 6 p.m.

The Ashland University Choir and Ashland Area Chorus are under the direction of Dr. Rowland Blackley, director of choral activities and associate professor of music, while Stephanie Sikora, associate professor of music, directs the Women’s Chorus. Dr. Timothy Guenther will play the organ, while Rose Zuber will be pianist. The liturgists are Dr. John and Jeanie Shultz.

Sponsored by the Department of Music and the Center for Religious Life, the Festival of Lights will conclude with a traditional candle-lighting ceremony.

Canned food for needy families of Ashland County will be collected at the event and distributed by Associated Charities.