Friday, December 9, 2011

Feast of the Immaculate Conception

During yesterday's gospel, this song leaped into my head.  I became aware of this old carol just a few years ago, but it's now one of my favorite Advent hymns.



Updated to answer a private comment:  Yes, I know the Immaculate Conception refers to Mary's conception without original sin.  This song sounds like it's more about Jesus' conception/incarnation, but it follows the gospel reading for December 8th.  "The angel Gabriel was sent from God . . . "  Hailing Mary as "full of grace" and (in the song) "most highly favored lady" reminds me of her sinlessness.  Anyway, happy listening!

Monday, December 5, 2011

Second Week of Advent

"Prayer, mortification, and good example will always form the basis of the Christian apostolate . . . Apostolate springs from a great love for Christ."
Francis Fernandez, In Conversation with God

How is your Advent going?  We got off to a slow start, but it's not too late to make progress.