AU’s Festival of Lights taking place Sunday, Dec. 7

ASHLAND, Ohio – The 34th edition of Ashland University’s Festival of Lights, a collaboration between the choral music program and the Office of Christian Ministry, will take place Sunday, Dec. 7. The Advent candlelight service starts at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at Jack and Deb Miller Chapel.

AU’s Festival of Lights communicates the birth of Jesus Christ through verse and song. It consists of scripture readings, seasonal choral music and hymns by the AU Choir, the AU Chamber Singers and the Ashland Area Chorus, as well as a “Silent Night” candle-lighting ritual.

All three choruses are led by Rowland Blackley, professor of music and director of choral activities at AU. Robert Mollard, adjunct instructor of organ, and senior Robert Mouledoux will play the organ, while AU Chaplain Rev. Josh Sumpter and his wife, Jessica, will serve as liturgists.

A wide-ranging set of musical selections will be performed, featuring some choruses from George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah.” Also, there will be Christmas hymns, including the likes of “Carol of the Bells,” “Christmas Eve” and “Gabriel’s Message.”

For more information, contact Rowland Blackley at rblackle@ashland.edu or 419-289-5114.