The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research transformed into a sanctuary of song, scripture, and scientific fellowship during its annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols.
Choristers processing
Purpose of gathering delivered by the Administrator – Mr. Theodore Ahuno
What followed was a remarkable journey through the Christmas story told in nine lessons, read in various languages and by representatives from the Institute’s departments and units. From English to Japanese, French to German, and Ghanaian languages like Buli, Ga, Ewe, and Twi, the scriptures came alive in a multilingual mosaic
A scientist reading a lesson the fourth lesson
Each reading was interwoven with classics like O Come O Come Emmanuel, Silent Night, We Three Kings, and Joy to the World, performed by the Noguchi Choir and Viral Melodies, the latter from the Department of Virology.
Viral melodies singing a hymn
What made the festival extraordinary was its fusion of faith and academia. The readers were not just participants, they were parasitologists, virologists, nutritionists, security personnel, technicians, among others, each bringing their unique voice to the nativity narrative
Cross-section of staff in attendance
The Director, Prof. Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, delivered a heartfelt End-of-Year message, reflecting on the Institute’s achievements and challenges. She thanked all the staff for their support during a particularly challenging year and encouraged all to keep the spirit of unity and scientific excellence
Director’s End of Year Message given by Professor Michael Ofori
on behalf of the Director
Pastor Danso-Coffie led a prayer into 2026, where he prayed for hope and healing for the year ahead. As the final notes faded, what remained was a sense of unity, across languages, departments, and beliefs. This year’s Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols was not only an event; it was a living testament to the power of community, the beauty of diversity and music, and the enduring hope of Christmas.
Prayer into 2026