The “Independence Hall of American Methodism” invites people to enjoy a Christmas concert each December. Barratt’s Chapel in Frederica, Delaware was built in 1780 by a Methodist Society. It was at Barratt’s Chapel that Thomas Coke and Francis Asbury first officially celebrated the sacraments of communion and baptism and therefore turned a religious movement into the Methodist Church in America. The Quaker-style pews and intimate space heighten the experience of the 2016 Lessons & Carols service featuring the Wesley College Choir, the Delaware Choral Society and four more community choirs. “Sometimes I think about how worshippers were singing those same carols here, same notes, same words, 200 years ago, and that’s special, “ says James Wilson, Associate Professor of Music at Wesley College in Delaware. Enjoy this excerpt from the 2016 concert, brought to you by United Methodist Communications. Merry Christmas everyone!
