The biggest gathering of students and staff from the whole of the University takes place each December at the University Carol Service. Organised by the Chaplaincy and students from church groups and religious societies on campus, nearly 2000 people attend a memorable evening of readings, carols and choral singing in the awe-inspiring atmosphere of Canterbury Cathedral.

The 2024 Carol Service is on Monday 9 December at 19:30. Although the event is free of charge, admission to the Cathedral on the night is by e-ticket or previously issued paper ticket only because of the demand for seats.

This year’s appeal, for homelessness charity Porchlight, is online via the Justgiving platform.

How to Get Your Tickets

Please book online via Eventbrite. In addition, for those who prefer paper tickets are available from the Catholic Chaplain Fr Mark Wharton m.wharton@kent.ac.uk

Accessibility

We can make different arrangements for students with disabilities or mobility or sensory conditions, please contact Fr Mark Wharton m.wharton@kent.ac.uk to indicate how we can support your participation.

Volunteer as a steward

Every year we welcome offers from students who would like to act as Volunteer Stewards at the Carol Service. Volunteer Stewards are given duties to perform, such as issuing programmes, checking tickets etc., and are instructed to sit in their designated places at the Carol Service.

Volunteer Stewards need to be available for a training session at 17:15 on Thursday 5 December OR at 17:15 on Friday 6 December. You may also be needed at the Cathedral from 14:30-15:30 on Monday 9 December, and from 18:20 that evening (i.e. just over an hour before the service starts).

If you are interested in volunteering for this rewarding role, please e-mail Revd Dr Stephen Laird s.c.e.laird@kent.ac.uk or Fr Mark Wharton m.wharton@kent.ac.uk as soon as possible!