Revd Chris McDermott, Lead Chaplain for the University of Sussex

As we approach the end of 2021 it is with a measure of ambivalence. Many of us were hoping for a clearer view of that light at the end of the Covid tunnel, having gotten use to something approaching normalcy.

Yet, as I write this article, the government has announced ‘Plan B’ as we cope with the more infectious strain of the Omicron variation on the virus. I am glad they did, as it errs on the side of caution.

And we do need to be cautious even though it would seem that the roll out of vaccinations and boosters are really making a difference to those double or even thrice jabbed.

Amid the mixed bag of news that we have endured over the past months: on one hand tragic stories about the plight of migrants and dreadful fates met by nearly 30 people venturing the hazards of the Channel to reach these shores; exigencies around the need for action on climate change that is more than gesture politics.

On the other hand, good news about the successful roll out of vaccines and the growing numbers of those now vaccinated.  And the opportunities we have had for reconnecting with families and friends for the first time in nearly two years. The themes of this holiday season around light, peace, joy and hope are particularly resonant.

Our annual Choral Carol Concert has now gone online as a YouTube video (see below). The holiday themes are quite prominent among the readings and choral performances. I think that their broadest resonance for all people is particularly evident in the poem Amazing Peace by Maya Angelou, read by Dr Alexandra Loske.

This will be the shortest item I have submitted to date as I have decided to let the music and readings of the Choral Carol Concert do duty for my usual monthly article. OK, and maybe I am being just a little bit lazy!

But I wish you all the best for this holiday season and for the impending new year. May you enjoy much happiness, light and peace whatever your faith of belief. Click on the link below and enjoy the choral performances from the University of Sussex’s Choral Chamber Choir led by Hannah Folkes and supported by our organist D’Arcy Trinkwon.