In
light of Christmas this week, I thought it would be appropriate to contemplate
the beauty and meaning in an ancient Christmas text, O magnum mysterium.
Below you can read the English translation of this text and then I’ve followed
it with five musical settings. Which is your favorite, or do you have another
favorite that is not listed here?
O
great mystery,
and
wonderful sacrament,
that
animals should see the new-born Lord,
lying
in a manger!
Blessed
is the Virgin whose womb
was
worthy to bear
Christ
the Lord.
Alleluia!
