Lessons and Carols first appeared in 1918 at King's College, Cambridge University. Today, it is performed by countless universities and churches around the world. The program portrays the Christmas story through music and biblical readings. The audience is invited to join the choruses in singing traditional Christmas carols.

The Rockhurst University Chorus, Chamber Singers, and Chorale, along with an instrumental ensemble, will perform music that ranges from the mediaeval to the sublime. This season's program includes the Plainchant Creator Alme Siderum, the hauntingly beautiful O Holy Night, and works based on folk and popular music. Also included is the stunning Catalonian Carol of the Birds, set for women's voices, and Brightest and Best, a rollicking version of the American hymn tune Star in the East.