Nine Lessons and Carols 2025

Truro Cathedral was filled with candlelight, music and tradition as the annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols took place. The service celebrates the special relationship between Truro Cathedral and Truro School and offered a moment of reflection, joy and generosity for all who attended.

The service was led by the Reverend Helen Byrne, Truro School Chaplain, alongside the Very Reverend Simon Robinson, Dean of Truro. As the congregation’s candles were lit, the opening verses of Once in Royal David’s City were sung by a soloist and the choir, setting a reverent tone within the Cathedral.

The service unfolded through nine biblical readings, tracing the Christmas story. Lessons were read by members of the Truro School community, including pupils from both the Prep and Senior Schools, as well as staff and governors. Each reading was interwoven with carols and choral works that filled the Cathedral with sound.

Musical highlights included the reflective ‘Adam lay ybounden’ and Handel’s ‘And the Glory of the Lord,’ alongside hymns sung by the congregation, including a joyful rendition of  ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’.

The Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols holds a unique place in Truro’s history. First devised in 1880 by Bishop Edward White Benson, the first Bishop of Truro, the original service was held in a temporary wooden building while the Cathedral was under construction. Benson’s vision has since spread, making service a central part of Christmas worship across the globe.

Following the final blessing, the service concluded with ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ as donations were made to support Children’s Hospice South West.

Thanks to all of those who worked so hard to deliver such a beautiful and festive service and to all of those who attended this much-loved celebration of Christmas.