STEUBENVILLE — The Sacred Music Department at the Franciscan University of Steubenville invites the community to its annual Advent Lessons and Carols celebration at 7 p.m. Friday in the newly renovated Christ the King Chapel. The event is free and open to the public, and all are welcome to attend.

An Advent tradition, the service weaves together Scripture, prayer and sacred music to reflect on the story of salvation. Nine biblical readings are paired with hymns and carols. Attendees will be invited to join in singing familiar carols as well as spending moments in prayer and reflection.

This year’s program will feature performances by the Schola Cantorum Franciscana, Women’s Choir and Christ the King Chapel Choir. Music selections range from the ancient Marian hymn “Ave Maris Stella” to cherished seasonal favorites such as “Silent Night,” “We Three Kings,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing.”

Lessons and Carols began in Truro, England, in 1880 and gained international recognition through the annual tradition established at King’s College in Cambridge in 1918. Franciscan University has continued this custom for decades, inviting students, families and area residents to enter the Advent season more deeply through song, Scripture, and communal prayer.

The evening will be conducted by Vincent E. Rone, associate professor of fine arts, director of the university’s sacred music program, and director of choral activities at Franciscan University. Rone also serves as director of music at Archangel Gabriel Parish in the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

Joining him is professor Ian Brown, organist for the performance, an adjunct professor of fine arts at Franciscan University and director of music at Divine Mercy Parish in Pittsburgh.