Despite the inclement weather yesterday, the ROSL faithful made their way to St George's Church, Hanover Square, for a Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Led by The Reverend Roderick Leece, our local parish church was filled with song as the ROSL Choir sang Coventry Carol, Gabriel's Message, and Candlelight Carol. Made up of members and ROSL staff, the choir had just an hour to practice before taking centre stage, and performed beautifully. They also led the congregration in the festive favourites Once in Royal David's City, It Came Upon a Midnight Clear, O Little Town of Bethlehem, O Come All Ye Faithful, and Hark the Herald Angels Sing.
Between hymns, nine lessons were read by members of ROSL staff and members, including Chairman Sir David Brewer and Director-General Diana Owen. Nicholas Mogg baritone, winner of the 2017 Vocal Section at the Annual Music Competition, sang two solo carols, to show the rest of us how it was done!
The service was completed by a blessing by the reverend, and then the congregation once again headed out into the cold, making the short walk back to the clubhouse for afternoon tea. Over cream tea, sandwiches, and bubbly in the Hall of India and Pakistan, guests were treated to a visit from Santa's helpers and each received a gift.
The festivities don't end there, check out the other events happening over Christmas and the New Year here.
