In 1924, Church Farm School founder and headmaster The Rev. Charles Wesley Shreiner adapted the popular play, “Why the Chimes Rang,” into a dramatic pantomime performed by CFS students in period costumes and accompanied by seasonal organ and choral music. A tradition—simply referred to as “Pageant” by the school community and the generations of local families who have attended each year—was born.
“Why the Chimes Rang,” first published in 1909 by Raymond MacDonald Alden, tells of a grand old church (much like Church Farm School’s historic Chapel of the Atonement) with beautiful chimes which ring out when someone places an especially pleasing gift for the Christ-child on the altar as an offering, and how a miracle occurs after the chimes have fallen silent for years. The Pageant’s extensive cast of characters – among them a Moor, an artist, an author, a miser, a knight and a king and queen and their court – parade to the altar in succession to present their most lavish possessions to the Priest. An interactive performance, Pageant guests serve as the church congregation, and are encouraged to participate in the prayers and hymns with the narrator and Church Farm School Choir.
“Why the Chimes Rang” is a deeply moving tale of humility and charity and is a fitting annual tribute to the school’s own Christian teachings. It also serves as an appropriate reminder that the school’s mission has been made possible since 1918 by the extreme generosity of a community who believes in the importance of providing a financially accessible education to those who otherwise would not have one.
We hope you will join us for the 95th production of the Church Farm School Pageant, which is appropriate for and enjoyed by all ages.
Date: Sunday, December 15 at 3:00 p.m.
Location: Church Farm School
Chapel of the Atonement
1001 E. Lincoln Highway, Exton, PA 19341
RSVP: www.gocfs.net/pageant
If you are unable to attend in person, you can watch via livestream here: https://locallive.tv/churchfarmschool
About Church Farm School
Located in Exton, the Church Farm School is an Episcopal boarding and day school for approximately 190 boys in grades 9 through 12. Students participate in a rigorous college preparatory curriculum as well as comprehensive athletics and arts programs. More than 90% of students receive generous financial aid, and all graduates are accepted at competitive colleges and universities, including Yale, Brown, Williams, Johns Hopkins and other esteemed schools. Learn more at www.gocfs.net.
