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St. Nathy’s College – Carol Service 2024.

Last Friday 13th Dec. we gathered again as a School Community in St. Nathy’s Cathedral for our annual Christmas Carol Service. Yet again, it did not disappoint. This year the choir under the guidance of Ms. Stack and Ms. Gordon opened the festivities with their spirited performance of “Joy to the World”. Bishop Doran then addressed the gathering, offering words of hope and encouragement, urging us all to join in the carols and celebrate together. 

The JPII students (John Paul II) then lead the entrance procession with lighted candles. Henry Black did the First reading, focusing on the Gospel of St. Mark. He reminded us that while Christmas is a time for celebration, it is also a time when we prepare for the coming of Christ.

Aaron Fox Lunt, Henry Black and Chloe O’Gara were the soloists when the choir performed “Little Drummer Boy,” telling the touching story of a poor boy who, unable to offer material gifts, gave the gift of his drumming to the newborn Jesus. Niamh Grady followed with a reading from the Prophet Zechariah, reflecting on the humble arrival of a victorious king who would bring peace and rule over a vast kingdom.

Afterwards, the choir performed “Carol of the Bells,” a festive piece celebrating the joyous sounds of Christmas bells. The Gospel reading told the familiar story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem for the census. Bishop Doran asked us to reflect on the significance of the scene, urging us to consider, “What is this all about?” Following this reflection, the choir sang “O Holy Night,” a powerful carol that celebrated the birth of Jesus and the profound joy of humanity’s redemption. (Soloists were Hannah Moynihan, Gabrielle Heavey, Chloe O’Gara, Henry Black, Ava Horgan, Zoe Mc Donagh, Adam Lavin, Ethan Hurl, Sinead Regan, Saoirse McDonnell and Ava O’Brien)

The “Prayers of the Faithful” followed, led by Ruth Brett, who encouraged us to prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus amidst the hustle and bustle of the season. Anthony Murphy then prayed for those experiencing hardship this Christmas, particularly those affected by war and displacement. Rebecca Giblin prayed for the families within our school community who welcomed new babies this year, celebrating the gift of new life. Rebecca McDonagh offered a prayer for those who bring joy to our lives, asking for God’s blessings of happiness. Molly Frain prayed for the Church, asking God to guide and inspire its leaders. Ciara Walsh’s prayer was for those separated from their families this Christmas, especially those whose loved ones have emigrated, asking for peace and joy wherever they are. Aoibhin Boyle prayed for peace, asking God to comfort those with troubled hearts. Rebecca Doherty concluded the prayers, remembering all those connected to our school who have passed away, asking that they find peace in God’s eternal home.

Gabrielle Heavey and Hannah Moynihan took the lead in the next song “Walking in the Air,” from ‘The Snowman’, evoking a sense of wonder with their magical description of a boy’s flight with a snowman on a moonlit night. We were reminded that this season is ultimately about celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Next, after his thought-provoking reading, Ryan Geever introduced “Away in a Manger,” a beloved carol that captures the peaceful innocence of the Nativity. Its simple melody allowed even the youngest students to join in, making it an integral part of our school’s Christmas celebrations. The carol’s focus on love and hope perfectly captured the true meaning of Christmas.

Eilidh Woods and Aednat McLoughlin shared beautiful poetry, both in Irish and English, reflecting on the peaceful imagery of the season. Their verses described angels’ candles in the sky and the warmth of a fire as we awaited the birth of Jesus.

Ava Horgan, Zoe McDonagh, Adam Lavin and Sonya Radchenko delivered a beautiful rendition of “Silent Night,” the famous Christmas carol that celebrates the serene night of Jesus’ birth. Their performance vividly portrayed the calm, holy scene in Bethlehem, showing the baby Jesus, his mother Mary, and the heavenly peace that graced the world that night.

Matthew Naughton read from St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, emphasising that love is the most important element of Christmas. He reminded us that love should take precedence over material preparations and that true love is selfless and enduring.

The next musical treat came from some of our very talented musicians—Ciara Walsh, Megan Walsh, Ewan Duffy, Aisling Maloney, Sarah Creaton, and Vaclav Hluchy—who performed a soothing instrumental piece, “Dublin Airport.” The piece captured the bittersweet emotions of travel, evoking feelings of excitement and nostalgia.  Guitarists were Henry Black and Aoife Shanley. Sound was monitored by Aaryanna Waldron and Aaron Fox Lunt.

Megan Walsh, Mollie Jordan, Daniel Anderson, Paudi Gilligan, and Eilis Taheny spoke thoughtfully about Advent before the choir performed “When Christmas Comes to Town,” a song reflecting a child’s wonder and excitement at the arrival of Christmas.

Fr. Henry thanked everyone for their contributions to the evening, noting Ms. Stack, Ms. Gordon, Ms. Staunton, the choir, the JPII students, the readers, the soloists, the staff and the students and all those involved in making the service so special. He reminded us that family is at the heart of St. Nathy’s College and wished everyone peace, joy, and happiness. Bishop Doran concluded with a final blessing for all and a humorous tribute to our “Sound man,” Aaron Fox Lunt who is a “sound man!”

The service closed with a beautiful performance of John Lennon’s “So This Is Christmas,” Ms. Stack and Ms. Gordon kept the best wine for last. The song urged us to reflect, embrace unity, and hold onto hope for a brighter, more inclusive future. It was a perfect finale, reminding us of the peace, goodwill, and love that the Christmas season brings.