The director writes:
We are singing a 10th century “Gaudete” to a renaissance carol from Piae Cantiones, (1582), the Great O Antiphons, Victoria’s Conditor Alme Siderum, Lo How a Rose e’er Blooming in English and German, a newly composed but evocative Rorate Caeli, a 14th century Angelus ad Virginem set by Andrew Carter to a 12th century tune, Britten’s Hymn to the Virgin, with readings from the prophet Isaiah and the Gospel of St Luke and a reflection by John Cardinal Newman - all topped off with two anticipatory Christmas carols for those who can’t wait. Following the service these is a reception in the Great Hall with wassail and Christmas cookies and some festive caroling.
