Christmas Chapel

Parker Hall is never as crowded as it is for the annual Christmas Chapel. The stage is packed with musicians, with the choirs spilling over on to bleachers in front of the stage; the Middle School and Elementary School choirs were singing from the balconies, and every available space was occupied by staff, students and hillside parents.

The hall was, as ever, beautifully decorated by employees under the direction of Mrs. Chelvam, and all were in their Sunday best for the occasion. On the floor outside the hall was a beautiful nativity in rangoli style, produced by art teacher Naveena Hayes.

Traditionally we don't have a sermon during the Christmas chapel, the message being carried by the readings of the Nativity story and, this year, by students from the elementary, middle and high schools who shared briefly what Christmas meant to them.

The service began with a stirring brass fanfare, and highlights included the singing of a Garhwali nativity song by elementary students, a duet by Dale Seefeldt and Rachel Moore-Breitler, and the performance of Silent Night/Night of Silence by the choirs and orchestra.

After the 3.00 p.m. service the whole school walked down to the Quad for hot coffee, hot apple cider and snacks. The three candidates for the post of principal were with us - this was surely a good introduction to Woodstock life for them.

Here's a few video clips, courtesy of Deirdre' Straughan '81