Noel 25: A Night of Carols, Candlelight, and Community at RIC

On 19 December 2025, the Chamber Choir of the Royal Institute Campus (RIC) presented Noel 25, a Christmas Carol Service that brought together music, faith, and togetherness in a truly special way. The service was held at the Church of St Paul the Apostle on Kynsey Road, Colombo 8, a peaceful and historic Anglican church that provided a beautiful setting for the evening.

As the sun set, the church filled with warmth and anticipation. The calm surroundings and soft lighting created an atmosphere that felt both sacred and welcoming, perfectly capturing the spirit of Christmas while reflecting the close-knit and inclusive culture of RIC.

The Chamber Choir’s performances were especially meaningful because of their trilingual nature. Carols were sung in Sinhala, Tamil, and English, allowing everyone present to feel included and represented. Well-loved Christmas hymns were blended with locally inspired arrangements, giving familiar songs a fresh and heartfelt sound that resonated deeply with the audience.

One of the most touching moments of the night was the candlelight performance. As candles gently illuminated the church, the choir sang with quiet grace, creating a moment of reflection and peace. This segment beautifully expressed the true message of Christmas—hope, love, and unity—and remained a highlight of the evening for many.

The Carol Service was made even more special by the wide range of participants involved. Performances featured current students, alumni, and students from different academic departments, bringing together generations of the RIC community. This shared stage reflected continuity, connection, and the lasting bond created through music.

The presence of alumni added depth and emotion to the service, reminding everyone that the RIC experience continues long after graduation. For current students, performing alongside alumni was inspiring and meaningful, strengthening the sense of belonging

Adding to the festive spirit was a Christmas Market organised by the Christian Society of RIC. The market offered festive food, handmade items, and seasonal gifts, creating a cheerful space for conversation and celebration. It encouraged students, staff, alumni, and visitors to come together, share moments, and enjoy the joy of the season.

The combination of the reflective carol service and the lively market created a well-balanced celebration—one that honoured both the spiritual and social aspects of Christmas.

Noel 25 was more than a carol service. It was a celebration of community, diversity, and shared joy. Through music in three languages, the gentle glow of candlelight, alumni participation, and thoughtful community initiatives, the event reflected the values that define RIC.

As the final carol faded and the candles were slowly extinguished, the evening ended with a sense of warmth and gratitude. Noel 25 left behind lasting memories and stood as a beautiful reminder of the joy and togetherness that Christmas brings to the RIC community.