STEUBENVILLE, OHIO — As the Church enters the sacred season of Advent, Franciscan University of Steubenville has created a beautiful new way for the faithful to prepare their hearts. The Advent Lessons & Carols video series is now available free to the public on Franciscan University’s newly expanded digital platform, FaithandReason.com.

The series presents an immersive and prayerful journey through salvation history, featuring Scripture, choral music, and meditations performed by Franciscan University student ensembles under the direction of Dr. Vincent E. Rone, associate professor of fine arts and director of sacred music at Franciscan University. Each segment walks viewers from the fall of Adam to the Incarnation.

“The Church gives us the season of Advent as a time to prepare for the Second Coming of Christ and to celebrate the mystery of his birth. Our Advent Lessons & Carols invites the faithful into that preparation with Scripture, prayer, and sacred music that lifts the heart to God,” Rone said. “We hope it inspires all who watch to enter Christmas with renewed joy and gratitude.”

Advent Lessons & Carols traces its origins to 19th-century England and has become an enduring expression of Christian hope and preparation. Franciscan University has embraced and continued this tradition to draw the community into deeper reflection on God’s mercy and the mystery of the Incarnation.

From the ancient hymn Ave Maris Stella to cherished carols such as Silent Night, We Three Kings, and Hark! the Herald Angels Sing, the series offers music that captures both the quiet hope and triumphant joy of the Advent and Christmas seasons.

The video series—professionally recorded and beautifully filmed at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church in Weirton, West Virginia—can be viewed here.

“Advent is a sacred invitation to slow down, listen, and let our hearts be renewed in the hope of Jesus Christ. At Franciscan University, our mission is to help people encounter that hope in a real and personal way,” said Franciscan University President Father Dave Pivonka, TOR. “Through this Advent Lessons & Carols series, we offer a moment of peace and beauty to anyone longing for the Lord. I pray these Scripture readings and sacred songs draw people everywhere into a deeper awareness of God’s mercy and the incredible love made flesh for us in Jesus Christ.”

In addition to the new digital series, Franciscan University will host its annual live Advent Lessons & Carols service on Friday, December 5, at 7:00 p.m. in Christ the King Chapel. The concert is free and open to the general public.

The release of Advent Lessons & Carols marks another milestone for FaithandReason.com, Franciscan University’s dynamic online hub for Catholic formation, evangelization, and culture. The platform now offers:

• Original video series on Scripture, theology, liturgy, and Catholic culture
• Conversations and interviews with leading Catholic thinkers
• Spiritual reflections to support personal prayer and growth
• Podcasts and opportunities for pilgrimages to holy sites around the globe.

From accessible short-form content to full-length teaching series, FaithandReason.com continues to advance Franciscan University’s mission to educate, evangelize, and send forth joyful disciples empowered by the Holy Spirit.

To view images from the recording of the video series, click here.