Christmas Carols - 3

See Him lying on a bed of straw:
A draughty stable with an open door.
Mary cradling the babe she bore:
The Prince of glory is His name.

O now carry me to Bethlehem
To see the Lord appear to men:
Just as poor as was the stable then,
The Prince of glory when He came!

Star of silver, sweep across the skies,
Show where Jesus in the manger lies;
Shepherds, swiftly from your stupor rise
To see the Saviour of the world!

O now carry me to Bethlehem
To see the Lord appear to men:
Just as poor as was the stable then,
The Prince of glory when He came!

Angels, sing again the song you sang,
Bring God's glory to the heart of man;
Sing that Bethlehem's little baby can
Be the Saviour of us all.

O now carry me to Bethlehem
To see the Lord appear to men:
Just as poor as was the stable then,
The Prince of glory when He came!

Mine are riches, from Thy poverty;
From Thine innocence, eternity;
Mine, forgiveness by your death for me,
Child of sorrow for my joy.

O now carry me to Bethlehem
To see the Lord appear to men:
Just as poor as was the stable then,
The Prince of glory when He came!

Michael Perry (1942-1996)

Our photo today is a bit of a surprise! No, it was not taken in a church, rather it was taken in the refectory of the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer on Papa Stronsay. During the Christmas Season their refectory is transformed into a stable with Baby Jesus at the centre. The priests and brothers sing carols at all their Christmas meals. What a lovely tradition!

Those of us who have copies of their lovely 2010 Papa Stronsay Calendar also know that they celebrate 'Little Christmas' every month of the year on the 25th day. Although the straw doesn't appear, they do sing carols at the main meal on each of these days of the year.

We have much to learn from the Sons of the Most Holy Redeemer, and I am delighted that they are moving towards becoming fully integrated into the Diocese of Aberdeen. Thanks be to God! Do please remember them in your prayers during this festive season.

Happy Sunday!