But despite these stresses, the student performers shine through as always, she said.

“One of the things that we think about is the privilege to stand in front of our choirs and let these young people show that these people are our future,” she said. “They’re talented, engaged and it’s just a privilege.”

For many students, faculty, staff and alumni of Gustavus, Christmas in Christ Chapel is a yearly kick-off to the Christmas season. The show is so popular, the college has packed the 1,000-plus-seat chapel for every single performance for more than a decade. This year looks to be no exception.