Christmas Chapel Service

A beloved Shawnigan tradition brought the 2016 fall term to a close.

 

Students, staff and families enjoyed a sumptuous meal in Marion Hall Thursday evening, before proceeding to the chapel where they were greeted by warm candlelight and a cello prelude from Grade 11 student Dalton S.

 

As he opened the service, the Rev. Jim Holland suggested that the core messages of the evening's lessons are those of harmony and goodwill that continue to bring people and nations closer. He urged the congregation to listen for the "heart" of these stories, "to the message of light in the darkness, hope amid despair, and the power of love over fear and hate," he said.

 

Holland also encouraged everyone to remember those who are struggling with the challenges of poverty, illness and violence.

 

"Most of all, we are grateful for the abundance of good things — both spiritual and material — that fill our lives."

 

In between familiar carols and lessons read by students, soloist Kamryn M. performed a lovely interpretation of "Noel." A new element also brightened the service, as Ms. Shannon Tyrrell led a choir composed of students and staff in a beautiful performance of Josh Groan's "Believe."

 

In his remarks, Headmaster David Robertson touched on the promises mentioned in Robert Frost's poem, "Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening." Mr. Robertson said promises are solemn undertakings to do things for others, while taking the focus off the self.

 

The Headmaster also quoted children's poet Dr. Seuss.

 

"Every one of us can avoid being a Grinch by thinking of others," he said.

 

After the service, students returned to their Houses for final celebrations and farewells, as they prepared to return to their friends and families for the holiday season.