In 1918, the then-new dean of King's Chapel, 34-year-old Eric Milner-White, wanted to try something innovative and beyond the standard liturgy of the Church of England. So, he wove together scripture and song, called on readers of various ages from school and town, and made up this truly magical progression that carries us from prophecy to fulfillment, from Old Testament foretelling to a birthday celebration.

2008 Program
Fully Detailed 2008 Order-of-Service Program (pdf)

We're interested in your responses to this year's Festival Service. Tell us what you think.

Listener comments about last year's program
About the King's College Choir

Twenty-five years on Public Radio
by Nick Nash, December 2003

Most children, if asked, would say that their favorite day of the year (with the possible exception of their birthday) would be Christmas—or a day like it—when families gather and gifts are exchanged.

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About the Music
Music from the Choir of King's College, Cambridge is available either on CD or DVD from Amazon, where your order supports public radio.

About the Broadcast
Internet distribution of A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
is produced by American Public Media, BBC, and BBC Radio International

Funding for the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols is provided by Penny and Bill George and the George Family Foundation, with additional funding from the James Ford Bell Foundation, in honor of Elinor Watson Bell.

History of the service, from the King's College site

Visit the King's College Chapel website to view this year's Order of Service as well as information about the Chapel and the Choir. Also find out more about the Chapel Foundation and how to become a supporter. The Chapel Foundation, established in 1997, raises funds to preserve King's College's international heritage and secure its future.

King's College Chapel Architectural Details

360-degree Panoramic views inside King’s College Chapel