Singing Carols by Candlelight is an Australian tradition which many enjoy year after year. The inspiration for Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight® was born one Christmas Eve in 1937, as radio veteran, the late Norman Banks MBE, strolled along historic St Kilda Road in Melbourne after a late night radio shift. As he walked, he noticed an elderly woman sitting up in bed by her window, her face lit only by a candle. She had a radio beside her and was singing along to the Christmas carol, “Away in a Manger”. It was at this moment that Banks was inspired to create the first gathering of people to sing carols by candlelight. In 1938, 10,000 people gathered at midnight in the Alexandra Gardens to sing carols. The unusual candlelight setting, and the beauty of the carols, instantly won the affection of the large assembly. A new Christmas tradition was born.*
The continuing tradition of listening to and singing carols at Christmas is interesting to observe, given the lyrics of the traditional carols sung. To be shopping in Myer and hear a contemporary artist singing ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, “Glory to the newborn King; Peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled!”, sharing the story of Jesus’ birth proclaimed directly from the Bible (Luke 2) is somewhat startling, if one moves beyond the familiar tradition and considers what’s being proclaimed.
Is such a tradition outdated and out of place in our increasingly secular society?
Perhaps listening to and singing carols this Christmas, we can be reminded of the original message of Christmas, and challenge others with it.
That’s what I’ve been thinking about.
What do you think?
The Rev 
Went to a carols by candle light in my local community last night. It was hoste by all the local churches. A great atmosphere, good singing & acknowlegding the true meaning of Christmas and his saving work.