Gooden Blog

Lessons and Carols is a cherished tradition in the Anglican and Episcopal churches that began in 1880 at Truro Cathedral in England. Created as a joyful and meaningful way to celebrate Christmas, the service weaves together scripture readings and carols to tell the story of God’s love, from the earliest prophets to the birth of Jesus.

Adopted widely across the Episcopal Church, Lessons and Carols has become a beautiful way for communities and schools to prepare for Christmas through music, reflection, and shared celebration.

The Gooden School has celebrated Lessons and Carols in many cherished spaces over the years, from our own Church of the Ascension, to San Marino’s Church of Our Savior, to our current home at St. Rita’s. Each venue has witnessed the long-held tradition and beautiful service that our families will experience today.

The Christmas service has remained true to its 1880 origins, with only a few changes over the years, most notably in the music and in light-hearted moments, such as replacing the once-traditional live baby Jesus (often a sibling of a Gooden student) with a doll. One fond memory from Nadya Ewen’s early years in her 30-year career at Gooden is how “The Waiting Carol,” a favorite of the Head of School, Jack Towner, became one of her own as she accompanied the 1st–3rd graders on her flute.

Our very own Latin teacher and Gooden alumnus, Josh Moran, remembers when Lessons & Carols was held at the Church of the Ascension, where it often became a standing-room-only event. He recalls the excitement of the evening: students dressed in their crispiest uniforms, hearts racing as they waited for the service to begin. For those chosen to do the readings, the mix of nerves and pride made their moment in the spotlight unforgettable.

After the service, everyone would spill out of Ascension and walk back to campus, where the Heflin family greeted students with an array of treats and steaming hot cocoa. Josh still laughs about the old-fashioned ribbon candy and the inevitable sugar crash on the way home.

As we gather for this beloved tradition of Lessons and Carols, we are reminded of the warmth, hope, and generosity that define the season and the heart of The Gooden School community. These moments, filled with music, story, and togetherness, create lasting memories for our students and families alike. Year after year, this service not only celebrates the holiday season but also honors the spirit of curiosity, kindness, and joy that shapes life at Gooden, leaving each of us with cherished memories to carry forward.