HIGH POINT-- High Point University hosted its 48th annual prayer breakfast to remind people about "the reason for the season."

The university's choir joined other community choirs from several churches to sing hymns and Pastor Robert Norris provided a sermon.

Organizers say this breakfast is a way to kick off the holiday season and to remember loved ones who passed away this year.

Barry Kitley, the director of community relations at High Point University, said, "We are a God, family, country university, we stand tall on those beliefs and we want to celebrate with our community and with our students, we are a methodist-based institution."

Kim Shaver, an attendee, said, "The hymns and the Christmas carols, the invocation, the benediction, the message, it was very festive and just great to have fellowship with people we haven't seen in a while in the community."

More than 800 community members attended this year’s breakfast.