FORT LORAMIE — The public is invited to an Ecumenical Lessons and Carols Service on Sunday, November 27 at St Michael Church, Fort Loramie at 3 p.m. as a way to prepare for the celebration of Jesus’ birth at Christmas.

St. Michael and Ss. Peter & Paul joint Choir will lead music, with Lessons read by members of the following congregations:

• The Rev. Bill Halter Lockington Methodist Church

• The Rev. Jack Chalk Hardin Methodist Church

• The Rev. Dale Ritts Oran Christian Church

• The Rev. Kris Geise Houston Congregational Church

• The Rev. John Leighty New Hope Methodist Church

• The Rev. Steven Shoup Ss. Peter & Paul Church

• St. Michael Church

A reception will follow at St. Michael Hall.

History of Lessons and Carols

In 1880, E. W. Benson, Anglican Bishop of Truro, England, composed a Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, based on ancient sources, for Christmas Eve. In 1918 it was adapted for chapel at King’s College, Cambridge. It’s purpose was “…not to celebrate Christmas, but to expect it.” This liturgy of preparation is filled with prophetic imagery in music, texts, and movement. Advent (the coming) is not only a season of preparation for the birth of Christ; it is also a time of preparation for the Second Coming of Christ as Judge of the World.