There’s a tendency to look down on Christmas carols. For some. Its simply that traditional hymns are not generally sung around the year, so why suddenly dedicate entire church services to them now. For others, it’s the belief that they are too sentimental, saccharine and lack the theology or poetry of other hymns and songs.… Continue reading In defence of carols
Tag: Carols
What the carols mean. Advent Series
A few years back, we ran an Advent sermon series looking at the meaning of different carols at my then church. During the pandemic, I expanded this into a series of talks looking at a range of carols and advent hymns, both traditional and modern. You can listen to the talks here:
Preaching at the carol service
So, it’s Sunday evening in the week before Christmas and the church building is packed. This is probably the largest gathering you are likely to see all year, even if you pastor a large congregation. There are lots of visitors. You recognise some friends and family of church members who have come with them. Then,… Continue reading Preaching at the carol service
Advent Reflections available from Faithroots
This year, Advent begins on the 27th November. Some Christians find it helpful during Advent and the lead up to Christmas to set aside time for reflection each day. The other year, I put together a series of short talks/meditations linking to specific carols. I’ve included a mixture of advent hymns such as “Oh Come… Continue reading Advent Reflections available from Faithroots
The mystery of love (Christians Awake)
Happy Christmas. Today we’ve a Christmas Day #DailyDose special introducing one of my favourite carols.
O Come all ye faithful
It came upon the midnight clear
What has Bethlehem to do with Babel?
In the bleak midwinter
What does it mean to “give my heart”?
As with gladness
Today’s carol looks at the Wise men. We have their example and that of Herod or the religious leaders. Intellectual curiosity if that Jealous, defensive scheming Wonder and worship How do we respond to Jesus? 1 As with gladness men of olddid the guiding star behold,as with joy they hailed its light,leading onward, beaming bright:so,… Continue reading As with gladness
Magnetic Jesus – The first Noel
With a shout out to the brilliant Rich Pitt and Rachel Martin who drew our attention to the magnetic Jesus who draws disparate people together at the Church Central South Carol service …. 1 The first nowell the angel did saywas to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;in fields where they lay keeping their… Continue reading Magnetic Jesus – The first Noel
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