Monday, December 11, 2017

Candles and Advent carols


One of my tasks this week will be to change out the candles at St. Andrew's, now burning low, in anticipation of Christmas --- and prior to the annual community service for those who mourn, scheduled for Dec. 21.

There are 10 of these candles in three sets of sticks --- the "big six" on the high altar; two, on the free-standing altar; and two more on the credence table.

Each set requires a different size of candle and because they're vintage sticks, our supplier cannot provide candles that fit exactly. So there's nothing to do other than sit down with a pocket knife and shave the base of each to fit.

This can be maddening, if you're in a hurry; accomplished in something of a zen-like state if you're not.

So I'm listening for inspiration this morning to a CD entitled "An Advent Procession based on the Great 'O' Antiphons" recorded by the choirs of St. Mark's Cathedral, Seattle.

Here's a selection, among the most familiar and ancient of Advent hymns. Maybe it will calm you down, too.


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