‘Twas the night before Christmas
And all through the nave
The people had gathered
‘Midst the cold that they’d braved
The garlands were hung
On the walls with great care
Shim’ring trees ‘hind the altar
Poinsettias on stairs
Families and relatives
Friends old and new
Children and elders
The faithful and true
Had come once again
For a tale that’s beloved
Of a babe in a manger
From heaven above
The children post-pageant
Sat hopeful and restless
Envisioning treats that
St. Nich’las might gift us
And I and my colleagues —
this time, we’re just three
(That’s Cristina, Rebecca,
and Freda Marie) —
Extend a warm welcome
To old-timers and new
Rector David on sabbatical
Sends well wishes too
Here in Charm City
There’ve been marvels to cheer
Let’s start with our O’s —
Oh my, what a year!
And while young people swoon
Over Taylor and Kelce
We’re over the moon
‘Cause Lamar has stayed healthy!
But ‘midst all the joy
And excitement, my dears,
There’s also been heartbreak
Terror and fear
The Holy Land weeps
As war rages on
Russia, Ukraine
Still don’t get along
And here in our town
Our neighbors still long
For a city that’s whole
A Baltimore that’s One
Loved ones have passed
Anxiety’s high
Global warming continues
Threatening res’voirs to dry
And AI is abound
Writing papers and such
Sometimes, I wonder,
Is it all just too much?
But hark, can’t you hear?
The trumpets that sound!
Those angels, they herald
A love that’s unbound!
A light that shines bright
‘Midst the darkness and gloom —
Love Incarnate Is Come
In your hearts, make ye room!
For hope is alive
Don’t let headlines fool you
Breathe deep and exhale
Let God’s vision renew you
May singing and prayer
And scripture remind us
What’s lasting and real:
The love that does bind us
One to another
As part of God’s dream
That all be made well
Be made whole and agleam
So tonight cast your care
Christ’s Spirit set things right
Merry Christmas to all
And to all a good night!
Love,
the Paglinauan-Warner family