As Christmas approaches, do you have memories of singing carols with your mother or father? Is there a particular friend about whom you’re thinking warm thoughts? Here’s an opportunity to express thoughtful remembrance.
It’s the annual Memorial Carol Sing — a concert that has become a meaningful Island tradition. It’s on Sunday afternoon, December 7th, at 2:00 o’clock, at St. Paul’s church in downtown Charlottetown (Grafton at Church St.).
This is an hour-or so of Advent and Christmastime music — most of it singing together. “It’s quite an emotional occasion,” says rector John Clarke. “St. Paul’s church is a special place; its warm woodwork beauty and acoustics enrich the experience.” And there’ll be festive refreshments, too.
Beyond singing the music of the Christmas season, and hearing a few performed pieces and readings, audience members can actively honour a fondly remembered person — by having that person’s name inscribed on a star which they place on the Memorial Tree in the church’s sanctuary. A donation of $10 at-the-door goes to maintaining the church’s 1936 Casavant organ.
But donations are not required. The aim, says music director Dean Perry, is chiefly that people join in fellowship and appreciate the traditional music of this time of year -- a wonderful way to take active part in the Advent season and prepare for a thoughtful Christmas time. Information: 902-892-1691 stpauls@pei.aibn.com; www.stpaulschurch.ca; https://www.facebook.com/stpaulschurchinpei/