By Felley Lawson 

ARKADELPHIA, Ark.—Ouachita Baptist University’s Division of Music will present A Service of Lessons and Carols on Monday, Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m. in McBeth Recital Hall. The service is free and open to the public. 

A Service of Lessons and Carols has been a Ouachita tradition since 1997. 

“This service is a true worship service in the English tradition,” said Dr. Gary Gerber, dean of Ouachita’s School of Fine Arts. “It’s one of the most meaningful events that Ouachita has during the Christmas season.” 

The program includes Scripture readings that foretell, announce and explore Jesus’ birth, as well as carols to be sung by the audience and led by Ouachita Singers, Women’s Chorus and Ouachita Brass Ensemble. Guest organist for the service is Kay Roberts McAfee, organist at First United Methodist Church in Arkadelphia and former professor of organ and music history at Henderson State University. 

Among the carols to be sung this year are “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus,” “Silent Night,” “Joy to the World” and “Angels From the Realms of Glory.” 

Student Scripture readers include Emily White, a senior graphic design major from Coppell, Texas; Nicholas Herrington, senior studio art and history double major from Benton, Ark.; and Erica Dixon, a senior graphic design major from Arkadelphia, Ark.  

Faculty and staff Scripture readers include Dr. Ben Sells, Ouachita president; Dr. Jeremy Greer, dean of the Pruet School of Christian Studies; Carrie Sharp, assistant professor of education; Larry Grayson, instructor of music and director of the Worship Arts Program; Dr. Lewis Shepherd, vice president for community and intercultural engagement; and Dr. Stan Poole, vice president for academic affairs. 

Ouachita Singers will be conducted by Dr. Joshua Brown, assistant professor of music and director of choral activities, and accompanied by Dr. Mary Chung, associate professor of music. Women’s Chorus will be conducted by Dr. Natilan Crutcher, visiting assistant professor of music, and accompanied by Kristen La Madrid, Ouachita staff accompanist. Ouachita Brass Ensemble will be conducted by Jim Lloyd, instructor of music and athletic band director. 

For more information, contact Dr. Gary Gerber at [email protected] or (870) 245-5128.