518. JOY TO THE WORLD: THE STORIES BEHIND OUR FAVORITE CHRISTMAS CAROLS

Thomas Petriano

Do you have a favorite Christmas Carol? For believers and non-believers alike, there is an unquestionable power that Christmas carols have to evoke hope and promote sentiments of love. Knowing the history behind some of our favorite carols can make them even more meaningful. Who wrote them? Where did the melodies and lyrics come from? Did a Jewish songwriter actually compose “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas”? What is the story behind “Silent Night” and “O Holy Night”? During this lecture we will answer these questions, look at the story behind some of the most well-known Christmas carols, and listen to some of the most famous renditions of these carols.

10:00 – 12 noon                                                                                                       1 Session

Wednesday, December 17                                                                                        Fee:  $30

ABOUT THE LECTURER

Thomas Petriano holds a PhD in Theology from Fordham University and serves as the Chair of St. Joseph University’s Department of Religious Studies. He has been responsible for developing and teaching several fascinating courses at the college level, such as World Religions, Religions of Abraham, Women of the Bible, Islam, and Buddhism. Professor Petriano is also passionate about global service learning and has traveled with students to Nicaragua to assist the indigenous people there.