Maynooth College Annual Christmas Service to be livestreamed

The Annual Christmas Service from Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth, will be livestreamed for the first time on Wednesday 16 December at 7:30pm on www.sppu.ie . This annual event, now in its 51^st year, has been reimagined in light of the Coronavirus pandemic. Normally four choirs perform, however to keep within public health guidelines, only The National Seminary Choir – because it is from a single household – can perform on this occasion.

The Seminary Choir will be accompanied by socially distanced special guests Céline Byrne, Lyric Soprano, and Maynooth Campus Associate Artist, Sharon Carty, Mezzo Soprano.

While no congregation can be physically present, the service will be broadcast online, and St. Patrick’s College extends a particular invitation to cantors, musicians, singers from parish choirs and music lovers generally - to join this special albeit different occasion. A copy of the service will be available on the website.

In welcoming the novel initiative, the President of Saint Patrick College, Rev Professor Michael Mullaney, said, “After a year of so much suffering, isolation, loss and tragedy, the carol service could help to lift the spirits and hearts of those who tune in. The service of song and scripture is a part of the Advent preparation for the coming feast of the Nativity of the Lord; a celebration of Emmanuel, God-is-with-Us, particularly in this pandemic time. I welcome all to view what will be a most memorable and enjoyable recital for this holy season.”