St Mary’s Annual Carol Service – A Joyful Start to Advent
Thursday, 4th December 2025
On Thursday, 4th December, St Mary’s held its annual Carol Service to mark the beginning of Advent—a season of anticipation, reflection, and joy as we prepare for the coming of our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Our carol service was a beautiful way to welcome Advent, creating a spiritual atmosphere that inspires hope and celebration.
This year’s service took place in our local parish church, St Mary’s (Our Lady of Reparation), West Croydon, and brought together pupils, staff, governors, parents, and past pupils. The event followed the traditional format of readings and carols, featuring individual performances from each Year 7 form group and a lively Gospel style rendition of Joy to the World by a choir of Key Stage 4 pupils. Many agreed that this year’s service showcased some of the finest singing from both choirs and congregation in recent memory.
The six readings reflected the heart of the Christmas story:
- The prophet Isaiah foretelling the coming of the Saviour.
- St Luke’s Gospel recounting the angel Gabriel’s message to Mary, the birth of Jesus, and the shepherds’ visit to the infant Jesus.
- St Matthew’s account of the wise men’s journey.
- St John’s Gospel revealing the mystery of the Incarnation.
Thank you to everyone who prepared and participated in this special occasion—our readers, choir members, and all who attended. Special appreciation goes to Mrs Wheeler-Choudhury and Mr Parkis for their musical direction, and to our accompanist, Mrs Akhurst.
Carol Service - December 2015
