Dickensian Carol Service

Many of the images we are familiar with in our Christmases today come to us from the Victorian era, and are associated with the works of Charles Dickens, and especially his book, A Christmas Carol. This service uses readings from that magnificent work, as well as other writings by Dickens relating to the season, and reminds us of his special interpretation and understanding of Christ. Meantime, the music for both choir and congregation is taken from the sources that were available in his lifetime, so that we both hear his words and sing the carols that he would have known. Even the Bidding Prayer and the Blessing are derived from the great man’s own writings. “God bless us, every one!” A special feature of this service is that we are joined by descendants of Charles Dickens, who contribute to the readings.

Music:

Pastoral scene from Messiah – Handel

London Waits (Past thee o’clock) – arr. Wood

Merry Christmas – J.H Leslie

The Boar’s Head Cariol – Trad. Fyfe

In dulci jubilo – arr. Pearsall

When Christ was born of Mary free – Parry

Hallelujah Chorus – Handel

Host or Publisher Great St Bartholomew