Thursday, December 15, 2016

Advent IV



What the world needs now is…..

Those who are old enough, or eclectic enough to remember the Burt Bacharach tune might be singing “love, sweet love.”  The song has also been used in the films:  Forest Gump, Happy Gilmore and Austin Powers:  International Man of Mystery.  

You’re also probably wondering what a 1960’spop song has to do with the fourth Sunday of Advent.  Good, I’ve got you right where I want you!

This liturgical note focuses on today’s recessional hymn and last week’s prelude:  “The Whole World is Waiting for Love.”  (#64)  The song was written Sr. Marrianne Misetich SNJM, a member of the Sisters of Providence.  Here’s a little background on the Sisters order:

·      *   It was founded in 1843 in Montreal, Canada by Mother Emilie Gamelin. 
·       *  In 1852 the first Sisters travel to the American west from Montreal, but their mission is cut short by lack of preparation and support. On their way home to Quebec, they stop in Valparaiso, Chile, and remain to serve orphans and others in need.
·       *  In 1856 a second group arrives in Fort Vancouver, Washington Territory, from Montreal. They open their small home to orphans and the elderly.
·         *In 2001 the foundress, Mother Emilie Gamelin is beatified (the step prior to being canonized a saint).
·         *The Sisters have spent over 150 years building and staffing hospitals in the Pacific Northwest

Reflect on these simple words set to simple music. 

We’re waiting for Jesus like Mary, We’re waiting for Jesus the Lord.
Come down, Lord Jesus!  Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
The whole world is waiting for Love.  The whole world is waiting for love.

We’re laying a manger for Mary.  A manger for Jesus the Lord……            
Come down, Lord Jesus!  Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
The whole world is waiting for Love.  The whole world is waiting for love.
We’re making it lovely for Mary.  So lovely for Jesus the Lord…..
Come down, Lord Jesus!  Come quickly, Lord Jesus!
The whole world is waiting for Love.  The whole world is waiting for love.

NBC/Comcast’s public service announcements remind us “We Need a Little Christmas.”  I don’t disagree, but I believe what the world needs now……what the whole world is waiting for….. is love. 

Blest to be waiting with you at St. Mary’s,

Bruce

P.S.

If you’re interested in finding a way of spreading your love in 2017 consider joining our parish social concerns team.  Send me an e-mail a

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