I wanted to take the time to think and reflect for some solemn reflections. As many may assimilate: the Christmas seasonal preparations and the busyness can leave us feeling wearisome. This is where I especially appreciated virtually attending the annual Christmas Concerts of The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception and also this year at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in New York.
While the theme of the concerts are Christmas, I was pleasantly surprised with the Christmas compositions that are truly reflective of the church and the locations of the church. The virtual attendance served to create a balance and harmony within the soul. A special energy that desire to kindle and rekindle the spiritual, serene, calm, thank you.
I am truly proud to see the faithful communities of Washington DC., and New York. Especially the special efforts that you make to attend the Christmas services, events and programs in-person, thank you!
I especially appreciate the services in Spanish and English, that are normally delivered separately for the mass-services, and felt that for the Christmas concerts could have especially embraced the opportunity to include some-kind of Spanish element as well, such as music or a Christmas Carol / song that is sung is Spanish, that is reflective of mass-services and the community.
I truly appreciate the soul soothing voices of the beautiful choir at Mary’s Shrine as well as the inclusion of diverse school communities of New York, that come together to form beautiful choirs, orchestra and conductors.
Thank you to the support of the Catholic Ministries, Fathers / Reverends / Rectors, who seek to embrace and welcome all who attend in-person, virtually or watch the recordings, that are truly worthwhile, thank you. Thank you for the support of technology that makes live and recorded broadcasts possible.
It is also during this time I am particularly mindful of individuals who are grieving, homeless, or people who may not have a loving embrace of loved ones or family. Church and community organizations are pivotal during this time of year, with efforts of generosity and welcoming.
And especially to note during this time of my solemn reflections: I am reminded of the all-loving, open arms of Jesus Christ. The spiritual knowing and awakening that within the solemn moments are opportunities to draw closer to God. The silent whispers – thus; God in Us. In-Christ.
God Bless You and God Bless America, amen.
Related Blog Posts:
- ADVENT WREATH 2023!
- REFLECTIONS – OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE
- 12/12/23. FEAST OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE.
- MY CHRISTMAS ADVENT CALENDAR 2023!
- CHRISTMAS ADVENT SEASON ARTS AND CRAFTS 2023 – MAKING WREATHS.
Image 1 – from canva.com
Notes: These thoughts were originally hand-written on December 17th, 2023.
With Love & Kindness! 🇺🇸✝️💗
{HEART'S, FOREVER!} 