On Tuesday, 16 December, the Shiplake College community gathered at St Mary’s Church in Henley for the annual Carol Service, celebrating the Christmas story through readings and carols. The Church Rector Revd Jermy Taylor and the School Chaplain, Revd Becky Medlicott, warmly welcomed parents, pupils, staff, and governors before the Chorus delivered a moving rendition of The Truth Sent from Above. This was followed by Jack Falle (Year 7), who opened Once in Royal David’s City with a beautifully sung solo verse.
The Year 7 Choir delivered a delightful performance of Carol of the Children. The Chorus followed with stunning renditions of Coventry Carol, Angel’s Choir, and Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day. The Male Vocal Ensemble delighted us with Carol of the Star, before the Chorus and Camerata joined for a moving performance of O Holy Night.
It was wonderful to hear the whole congregation raise their voices together for the traditional carols – O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, and O Come All Ye Faithful.
The lessons were read by Kit Marsh (Year 13), Danny Petrov (Year 10), O. Ellis- Jones (Year 7), Jamie Pattinson-Smith (Year 8), Jemima Smith (Year 9), Z. Miles (Year 11), and the Headmaster, Mr Tyrone Howe. The prayers were read by our Chaplain and Chapel Wardens Amelie Delenay-Meinesz, Alice Knight and Jake Scotchbrook. The poem The Gate of the Year was read by Head Chapel Wardens Luca Hunt-Davis and Gabi Moran.
Thank you to the organist, Mr Seb Thomson, members of the London Heritage Brass, Revd Becky Medlicott, to Mrs Amy Haynes, Mr Paul Jones and Mrs Louise Rapple Moore for the musical preparations, and to Mr Andy Dix and the maintenance team for all their help with the logistical arrangements.
At the end of the service, a collection raised £1872.77 for the Churches in Reading Drop-In Centre (CIRDIC), helping to support the homeless and those in need. Thank you for your generosity.
Please enjoy the highlights video and photos from the service below.
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