Joy to the World: Christmas  Carols made new for our time and our universe

Diarmuid O Murchu

As we enter into the season of Advent, the old carols call to us again. For some, these are a huge source of nostalgia and support, for others a faithful remembering.  In a time when we are now viewing many traditions through the new lens of a broad universe, how can we go deeper and find a fresh interpretation of beloved Christmas carols.

While the melodies we know and love stay true, the lyrics are reimagined in language that resonates across cultures and beliefs, bringing new depth and insight to this cherished season.

Based on his recent book on this theme – this weekend invites us all, whether religious or secular, a singer or a listener; to explore a richer meaning in these timeless songs.

Diarmuid O’Murchu, a member of the Sacred Heart Missionary Order and a graduate of Trinity College, Dublin, is a social psychologist and author. Most of his working life has been in social ministry, including as a couples’ counselor, in bereavement and AIDS-HIV counseling, and with homeless people and refugees on three continents. His many books include: Ancestral Grace; Adult Faith; Ecological Spirituality; Evolutionary Faith;
Incarnation; Religious Life in the Twenty-First Century; and When the Disciple Comes of Age (all from Orbis Books).   See https://www.diarmuidomurchu.com/ for more