The theme for Advent 2011 is "Magnificat."  Luke's gospel, chapter 1:46-55, records the song of young Mary of Nazareth. This hymn is called the Magnificat because of the Latin translation of the first words text, "Magnificat anima mea Dominum," my soul magnifies God.  The song is an outpouring of praise for the incomprehensible works of the Holy in the life of Mary and in the new world that she anticipates when Messiah has come.

You will experience the Magnificat in a variety of ways each Sunday in Advent.  The hymns, prayers and responses that we read and sing together are largely based upon this text.  The choir will sing two different versions each week, in a wide variety of musical styles.  The sanctuary is adorned in shades of blue reflecting both the sarum rite of Advent liturgy and the color most associated with Mary.  Pastoral Intern Cara Morgan has written and compiled a booklet of thoughts, art, and meditation for you on "The Many Faces of Mary" which will be a welcome aid in a devotional exploration for many during this season.

As you experience Mary's song in more than a dozen different ways, be alert.  It may act upon you in ways that you have not anticipated.  As one of our composers has named it, "...the dawn draws near, and the world is about to turn."  May the blessings of Advent be deep and startling to us as we prepare ourselves for the world that is coming, even now.