Fourth Sunday of Advent

Due to the inclement weather that struck the Capitol region of New York on Friday (snow, and lots of it- 6 inches on Fridday, three more Saturday, and at least six again yesterday), we attended the vigil service at St Margaret Mary's in Albany. Again, the wreath lighting, and again the PC elements but the sermon, on The Annunciation, was lovely. (at least what I could hear- the toddler/child from another world disrupted the sermon AND the consecration uncorrected, as usual). I love this Gospel, since I am 46, and barren so far, but it gives me hope. Geoff's faith on this issue is stronger, but so is his faith. Love this man.


Sunday, we wrapped what Santa is bringing his parents and us for Christmas. (My parental units' gifts have already been delivered by the USPS) We had Bells of St Mary's running on the DVD to set the mood, and I was bawling like a baby. Afterwards, the animated Christmas shows were played. I wept my way through Santa Claus is Coming to Town and the second Frosty the Snowman, where he marries Crystal. Then the coup de grace, Little Drummer Boy. Did know know that my tear ducts were so full!!! Tonight is Rudolph's turn.

Watching the Rankin and Bass masterpieces, I was struck by the obvious love of their craft. While the secularized mythologies took center place in their story lines, Christmas themes remained (ie, the crosses hung on the trees for Santa Claus' wedding). The "reason for the season" was not removed at all; nothing was done to diminish the real reason for season and the "night of profound love" was emphasized. Their shows allowed for the continued belief of children of all ages in Santa, and kept intact the elements of Santa Claus. The emphasis was on love, the giving of ourselves (ie- the gift of the choo choo to the Winter Warlock), and on redemption being a choice made by us (again, the Winter Warlock in his song "Put One Foot in Front of the Other"- the lyrics are Christian in their underpinings). Many of their secular stories had their origins in 20th century carols, but the real story of Christmas was still presented, and was augmented byt the secular mythologies. Compare these glorious stories to the tripe and pap on the networks and on lifetime- We all know that Rankin and Bass would never be allowed to make these treasures today, but their works grow dearer and more beautiful every year. God bless these men and all who were a part of these works of art.