In northerly latitudes we are entering the darkest fortnight of the year when daylight hours are at their shortest. When we hear world news it is easy to see this naturally occurring cycle echoed in the manmade darkness of war and all kinds of human-induced suffering. But the power of grace is deepening as we move further into Advent: already the number of lighted Advent candles has increased 100% since last week; the supernatural light of the liturgy is intensifying.

When we feel helpless in the face of world events, we can cry out to God in prayer. You may like to join us in praying the following Advent hymn which we sing at Midday Office up to 16th December:

Light-bearing Christ, come down to us
And light in darkness sow;
Come down and save our fallen world
Whose sinful ways you know.

Prepare us for your grace and truth,
Who watch and wait for you;
Restore mankind’s lost dignity:
Come down and make us new.

Almighty Father, speak the Word
Your children long to hear,
And with your Spirit dwell with us
Lord, God of love, draw near. Amen.

Copyright, Stanbrook Abbey