Despite the wintery temperatures, the Abbey Church was full as the Downside School community came together for the annual Advent Carol Service.
The church was plunged into darkness as the Mixed Chamber Choir sang Rorate Caeli Desuper as the choir processed forwards. The Schola Cantorum, Mixed Chamber, Boys’ and Girls’ voices filled the Abbey Church with their beautifully melodic voices, lifting our spirits and reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas. Readings were taken from Isaiah, Michah, and the Gospel of Luke and the entire congregation united to sing hymns including O Come, O Come Emmanuel, O Little Town of Bethlehem, The Angel Gabriel, O Come All Ye Faithful and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.