Christmas Vespers celebrated

NEW WILMINGTON, Pa. -- Holiday tradition continues at Westminster College with the annual Christmas Vesper service at 7 p.m. next Sunday in Orr Auditorium.
The program features Westminster students reading scriptures, prayers and a call to worship, as well as portraying three kings and performing in various musical groups. The service, which annually attracts nearly 2,000 visitors, includes traditional Christmas music, sung by the audience and various Westminster choirs.
The Rev. James Mohr, college chaplain, will deliver the Christmas message; Anne P. Bruening directs the handbell choir; Dr. Tad Greig is director of bands; Kris Harper is director of the women's chorus; Dr. Elizabeth Harrison is the college organist; James Henderson is director of the gospel choir; Keturah F. Laney is the chaplain's assistant; Dr. Robin Lind is director of choral activities; and Gina Sharbaugh, artistic director of dance theater, is director of the liturgical dancers.
Dr. Paul Musser, a 1945 Westminster graduate, will perform the "Advent Evensong," and the Westminster Flute Ensemble will play the welcoming music. Some of the music will feature the combined choirs and the audience.
Performers from region
Area students participating in the program include: Margaret Kuttesch of Cranberry Township, flute choir; Allison and Nadia Buzzelli of Grove City, flute choir and woodwind quintet, respectively; Brian Campbell of Grove City, reading the call to worship; Jessica Davis of Hermitage, flute choir; Tara Grgurich of Hermitage, flute choir; Emily Burke of Chardon, Ohio, flute choir; Michelle Curry and Serah Stauffer, both of Youngstown, giving prayers; Stephen Franklin of Boardman, Ohio, reading Scripture; Amber Kunder of Boardman, flute choir and woodwind quintet.
The Christmas gifts displayed in Orr Lobby were purchased by members of the college community for needy families and foster children in Lawrence County, an annual project coordinated by the chapel staff, led by Laney.
The evening's offering will go to support outreach programs supported by the chapel office, including Habitat for Humanity International home-building projects, campus work trips and various volunteer opportunities.
The event is followed by a cookie and punch reception in Orr Lobby and the art gallery. Reception music will be provided by the Westminster College Woodwind Quintet.
Contact the Rev. Mr. Mohr at (724) 946-7116 or e-mail mohrjr@westminster.edu for more information.