It’s no secret this season is full of music. The malls and stores have been playing Christmas music for weeks now. Schools, community organizations and faith communities are having special performances of seasonal music, new and old. And while we don’t see it as often, this is one of the only times of the year that it is customary to have groups of roving singers caroling in hospitals, retirement communities, and even in our neighborhoods. The Advent/Christmas season is, for some, as the song says, the “most wonderful time of the year.” Could it be that the significant emotional power in these days resides largely in the collection of wonderful music that we sing together?
Some of those songs, like Mary’s song in Luke 1: 46-55, speak prophetically of the way the world will change to embrace the way of the Christ. Mary Beth will offer a reflection on this song, and its role in the story of the church. Others are basically lullabies, telling the story of Luke 2: 1-20 in lyrical form. They are sung as if to help an infant or a struggling world find a peaceful silence. Jimmy will reflect on these carols.
On Sunday at St. Mark’s, as we continue our Advent Theme of the “Spiritual Practices of Advent”, we concentrate on the practice of singing together. The Chancel Choir, accompanied by Ilze Ackerbergs, will sing “Sweet Was the Song” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem” from Bob Chilcott’s, “On Christmas Night”. Jenna Kuchar and Joseph Canter will present solos in those pieces. The Chancel Ringers will present “Carol of the Bells”. As noted, Mary Beth and Jimmy will each do a reflection on the power of the sacred found in the carols. And we will all sing some of those beloved carols together. There will be a moment for children, and prayers for the congregation and our world.
If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for a long time, a short time, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with those of you here in-person or joining on the livestream.