Posted on Wednesday, November 30, 2005
Holiday tradition continues at Westminster College with the annual Christmas Vesper service Sunday, Dec. 11, at 7 p.m. in Orr Auditorium.
The program features Westminster students reading scriptures, prayers and call to worship, as well as portraying three kings and performing in various musical groups. The service, which annually attracts nearly 2,000 visitors, includes traditional Christmas music, sung by the audience and various Westminster choirs
The Christmas message will be delivered by the Rev. James Mohr, College chaplain; the Handbell Choir is directed by Anne P. Bruening; Dr. Tad Greig is the director of bands; Kris Harper is the director of the Women's Chorus; Dr. Elizabeth Harrison is the College organist; James Henderson is the director of the Gospel Choir; Keturah F. Laney, is the chaplain's assistant; Dr. Robin Lind is the director of choral activities; and the Liturgical Dancers are under the direction of Gina Sharbaugh, artistic director of dance theater.
Dr. Paul Mussser, a 1945 Westminster graduate, will perform the "Advent Evensong" and the Westminster Flute Ensemble will play the welcoming music. Some of the music will feature the combined choirs and the audience.
The Christmas gifts displayed in Orr Lobby were purchased by members of the College community for needy families and foster children in Lawrence County – an annual project coordinated by the Chapel staff led by Keturah Laney, chapel assistant. Campus luminaries, which provide a lighted path to the event, were purchased by the Residence Life staff.
The evenings offering will go to support outreach programs supported by the Chapel Office. Ministries include Habitat for Humanity international home building projects, campus work trips, and various volunteer opportunities.
The event is followed by a cookie and punch reception in Orr Lobby and the Art Gallery. Reception music will be provided by the Westminster College Woodwind Quintet.
Contact Rev. Mohr at (724) 946-7116 or e-mail mohrjr@westminster.edu for more information.
