Ep. 5 S5 Hallelujah Chorus & Silent Night with Jessica Houle

Each holiday season, music helps us remember the special times with loved ones. Jessica Houle shared her memories about two songs that are important to her family's Christmas traditions: "Silent Night" and the "Hallelujah Chorus."

Jessica recalls the Christmas Eve trips to her grandparents' farmhouse. The house was small but filled with family—around 30 to 40 people gathering there. With only one bathroom, everyone had to share space, making for a busy but fun time of getting ready for the church service. The women helped each other do hair and get the children ready at the kitchen table.

The drive to church, only ten miles away, seemed longer in the snowy Minnesota weather. Arriving early to save seats for the family was essential. The evening service kicked off with the "Hallelujah Chorus," a much anticipated moment that saw Jessica and her cousins racing to join the choir. The choir director and regular singers guided everyone to create a beautiful, shared performance, without so much as one practice.

The "Hallelujah Chorus" is part of Handel's "Messiah," composed in 1741. This piece is famous worldwide and is often performed during Christmas and Easter. It’s said that King George II, moved with emotion, stood up during a performance, and now many people do the same when it is sung.

After church, the family returned to Grandma’s house for a fun, informal meal of snacks, not a sit-down dinner. Everyone dressed in cozy pajamas, exchanged gifts, and enjoyed each other’s company by playing games and giggling in bed late into the night.

"Silent Night," a calm and thoughtful hymn, signaled the end of the church service. The congregation held lit candles as they sang in English and then in German to honor their heritage. Jessica fondly remembers hearing him sing it with such pride. This tradition connected them to their roots and brought a special feeling of peace in the dimly lit church. Written in 1818, "Silent Night" is known for its simple and peaceful tune, fitting for the end of a Christmas Eve service.

As years go by, family traditions tend to change. Jessica’s family, now spread across the country, tries to keep their holiday spirit alive, even after the loss of Jessica's grandmother, a key figure in their celebrations. They work to blend old traditions with new ones, ensuring that family time remains central.

Jessica’s story shows how music keeps family traditions and memories alive. These songs, along with the family’s celebrations, symbolize togetherness and continuity, even as things change. Through music and these cherished practices, families can always find warmth and a shared sense of belonging in the Christmas season.

Jessica Houle's family traditions show us how music strengthens the ties between past and present, creating memories that we hold close to our hearts. 

Hallelujah Chorus (the song)

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