Many of us are powerfully drawn to the Advent and Christmas season because of the collection of lovely carols that warm our hearts when we sing them. Many of these refer to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, in warm and hushed tones. From “Away in a Manger”, to what child is this, Mary becomes the representative of the nurturing and comforting presence of God as she attends to the blessed Infant.
The song that comes from Mary’s mouth in the early chapters of the Gospel of Luke is a song that carries quite a different message. This hymn is often called the “Magnificat,” after the opening line, “My soul does magnify the Lord.” As Mary sings, we hear a strident and prophetic praise of God who has “shown strength…has scattered the proud…has brought down the powerful from their thrones.” Generations later, German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who publicly stood up against the Third Reich, would say that this hymn is “at once the most passionate, the wildest, one might even say the most revolutionary Advent hymn ever sung.” This song offers no Hallmark moment.
We will have a unique opportunity to engage Mary’s song on Sunday. Our Chancel Choir, joined by a chamber ensemble of strings and winds, will present Taylor Scott Davis, Magnificat, a creative arrangement of the canticle of Mary. There will be spoken reflections and unique images offered during the choir’s presentation of the piece. During the service, Director of Children’s Ministries, Madison Sinan will offer a moment for children. Mary Beth Hannah-Hansen and Jonathan Michaelsen will serve as liturgists in the service. We will sing and pray together, and light the second Advent Candle. We hope you join us.
If you have been part of the St. Mark’s community for a long time, a short time, or will be joining us for the first time, we look forward to connecting with those of you here in-person or joining on the livestream.