As it has done for the last 77 years, the University of Redlands will welcome Christmas with its Feast of Lights celebration.
This time-honored tradition, which was started in 1947 by Professor J. William Jones, shares the story of Jesus Christs’ birth through tableaux and music performed by various ensembles within the School of Performing Arts.
Along with classic Christmas carols and hymns, this year’s Feast of Lights will feature the premiere of “A Boy and His Drum,” a piece created by Composition Major Mena Williams ‘25.
Rev. John Walsh, the emeritus chaplain, will also elaborate on the holy theme with spoken word. Then, halfway through the service, the Ceremony of Candles will illuminate the Chapel in a symbolic message of spreading Christs’ light throughout the world. Following the service, a live nativity scene will be on display at the north end of The Quad, near the memorial Chapel entrance.
Tickets range from $12.45 to $28.45 and can be purchased here. In accordance with this season of giving, attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable goods that Family Service Association of Redlands will then distribute to the local community.
There will be three opportunities to enjoy the true magic of the holidays that the Feast of Lights delivers, with performances at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and at 4 p.m. on Sunday. The weekend finale performance will feature an additional 21 members from the University of Redlands Youth Choir.
Director of Choral Activities Nicholle Andrews encourages people to attend a Feast of Lights performance and share in the holiday cheer.
“As the semester ends, with papers due, exams, and final juries approaching,” Andrews said, “the week leading up to the Feast becomes a time for us to focus on the beauty of music and the joy it brings to all.”
McKenzie Rose, a sophomore double-majoring in Environmental Studies and Journalism, serves as the Redlands Bulldog Editor-in-Chief this semester. McKenzie first dabbled in the world of journalism during high school by working as a freelance reporter with the municipal Hermiston Herald and regional East Oregonian newspapers near her hometown of Echo, Oregon. She enjoys running (participating in the university’s track & field and cross country teams), spending time with her pets, traveling and listening to good ‘ol country music!
Love it, McKenzie! Thank you for sharing the details of UR events and happenings with all of us following our students’ lives along from home :). I hope you have a wonderful holiday and winter break.