The Road to Bethlehem

The road to Bethlehem came through my mother's house today, as Mary and Joseph paid a visit. It's part of the church's Posada, which is based on an old Mexican tradition and now in the 21st century involves the figures of Mary and Joseph travelling around the parish. Each host has a moment to reflect on Mary and Joseph's journey and the birth of Jesus, and record it in a journal; this can be what they did through the day or just a simple prayer.

It's also a perfect excuse for me to use one of my favourite Christmas Carols in 'Silent Night'. Here's a magical version from John Rutter, and here's the words:

Silent night, holy night
All is calm, all is bright
Round yon Virgin Mother and Child
Holy Infant so tender and mild
Sleep in heavenly peace
Sleep in heavenly peace

Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia!
Christ, the Saviour is born
Christ, the Saviour is born

Silent night, holy night
Son of God, love's pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth