Sacred Heart plans Advent lessons and carols service

The combined chancel and multi-cultural choirs of Sacred Heart Church, at 76 Broad St., Bloomfield, will offer an Advent lessons and carols service on Wednesday, Dec 14, at 7: 30 p.m. The choirs will be led by Jennifer Behnke, the director of music ministry at the church.

The program, “Lux Mundi” or Light of the World, will explore the themes of darkness and light, and the Advent tenants of hope, love, joy and peace through a service including four scriptural readings and prayers.

The diverse choral program highlights include: “Ave Maria,” by Franz Biebl, and “O Magnum Mysterium,” by Morton Lauridsen. Also performed will be traditional carol settings, anthems by Harold Darke and John Rutter, traditional African-American spirituals and compositions that reflect the vibrant and diverse community of Sacred Heart Church.

There will also be several contemporary works such as the titular piece “Lux Mundi,” by Trevor Thompson, and “The Prayer for Peace,” by David Cherwien. This freewill-donation event will be followed by a cookie reception with the performers in the Convent meeting room. Congregational participation is encouraged so join this evening of prayerful reflection and uplifting beauty.