Tag: christmas

Leave them wanting more

December 3, 2024

The other day, I had a nostalgic moment when I received an Advent calendar through the post. It was one of the old-fashioned ones, where behind each flap is just a little picture—no gifts, no trinkets. I’ve heard of people receiving Advent calendars with teabags, or ones filled with toiletries or toys. There’s even one with little bottles of gin for the odd days and tonic for the even days. But the most universal Advent calendar gift is, of course, chocolate. Most people love chocolate and there are good reasons for this … More Leave them wanting more

Angels’ Carol – John Rutter (b. 1945)

February 13, 2024

The trouble with writing about a seasonally appropriate piece of music each month is that there is far more Advent/Christmas/Epiphany music than there are suitable months in the year. So, this month I’m stretching a point. The season Christmas begins on Christmas Day and lasts until Candlemas, 40 days later, so despite technically having moved into Epiphany, here is a beautiful Christmas carol written by John Rutter in 1988 … More Angels’ Carol – John Rutter (b. 1945)

The Lamb of God

January 3, 2024

Today we are picking up the threads of a story which began before Christmas. We heard how the Pharisees had sent their disciples to ask John to tell them who he was. We have moved from Advent to Christmas and now the one who was expected arrives. In John’s gospel there are no stories around Jesus’ birth and this is the first time we meet him.  John the Baptist announces who he is “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” That’s a startling way to introduce someone. What would have come to mind for those who had gathered to hear John’s message … More The Lamb of God