-Due to the mass homework, my diary had completely stopped. But it starts again today.-

Today, I attended the Christmas Convocation at college. Convocation is kind of a ceremony. Usually, that means the ceremony for the entrance/graduation in college, but this time, it is for the Christmas. As the Concert Choir performed at the installation of the new college chaplain, the other chorus class, Women窶冱 Chorale, sang several times during the ceremony. Some of my classmates joined in the chorale.

It was held at the well and beautifully decorated Sinclair Auditorium. The convocation took place in accordance with the usual manners of the worship. Like the real worship in church, organist, brass ensemble and chorale played solemn music. We, the audience, also sang some carols. (I wonder the difference of the words. At the worship in church, ordinary it would be called hymn. In addition, we have to confess something. But we didn窶冲 do it today.) We listened to a bunch of songs and lessons. Some students and faculties talked at the lessons. (In church, it would be called sermon.)

The atmosphere was impressively solemn regardless of my faith. I hardly experienced this kind of ceremony in Japan. Originally, this college started in order to educate Christians, so that we have many chances to touch these traditional religious events in particular seasons. I have learned Christianity in practice many times since I came here. (I think I went to church and attended the worship more than I go to the Buddhism temples in Japan.) It is good cultural and religious experience. Tomorrow, I am going to attend the Jewish ceremony for Christmas.