Christmas carols in colleges spread cheer in Madurai

Madurai: Embracing the spirit of Christmas, carol services are spreading cheer once again in Madurai colleges thanks to the significantly relaxed pandemic restrictions and return of students to classes.

On December 19, a Christmas carol service was conducted at the Jubilee Chapel of The American College. Rev Frank Ben Roosevelt, deputy chairman of CSI ciocese of Madurai and Ramnad, gave the Christmas message while Rev J John Jeya Kamaraj, the chaplain, led the service. Christopher Sherwood and PFE Divakaran conducted the choir and around 10 songs were performed. “The American College has its own tradition for Christmas carol services which extends for more than 40 years with performance of singing carols and also having readings. In groups, the student choir, faculty and non-teaching staff take part,” said Divakaran.

Currently, 45 students are a part of the Jubilee Chapel choir. SAL Sudhakaran, a member of the choir for five years, said it is always special for students of the college to be part of the choir. At the annual carol service of Lady Doak College on December 11, soulful renditions by a children’s choir led by Dr Daisy Gohain, NTS choir led by chaplain Dr Jessie Ranjitha Jebaselvi C and faculty choir led by Dr Marie Serena McConnell were the highlights. “Message in a mess Age” was the theme of the message by motivational speaker and writer Rev Edward Francis.

“We had regular practice from December 1 before the performance. Last year, we had a recorded carol service in virtual mode. By streaming the carol services online too, we had more audience. Around 60 students are usually a part of the choir with some students from other religious faiths also generally taking part,” said Dr Jessie. For first year and second year students, this was the first time they performed offline on campus.

“Last year, I took part in an online audition to join the choir. We had to record a video and send it, which came out well. But offline performance is better and this year we were also able to practise together with seniors,” said Bibilin Sharon, a second year student. Student choir president Grace Anu summed it up thus: “Being in the choir is not just about singing but it’s more like everyone is a family. We got that feeling back this year with everyone coming together.”