Archbishop Vincent on Thought for the Day, Radio 2

[JW]

Two things struck me about this broadcast this morning:

Firstly he seemed to be quite happy for Chris Evans to call him 'Vincent', rather than 'Archbishop' or 'My Lord'. This I find most refreshing and IMHO sets an excellent example to all catholics, whether ordained, professed or otherwise.

Secondly , that he referred to Westminster Cathedral's Carol Services on 20th and 21st Dec. So I thought "carols in Advent, surely not?" The cathedral website refers to "Christmas Celebration" on 20th and 21st - isn't that anticipating the 25th or are they just trying to get the punters into an Advent service: different, I would suggest, to what is advertised? Or are we now able to put on proper carol services in Advent like most (more pragmatic) denominations?
Plug: Rainham has an Advent Service on Monday - I'd love to do a carol service as well though!

By the way the thought concerned none of the above, rather the way in which Christmas can best be celebrated by harmonious relationships.

[Nick Baty]

It’s here. Forward to 2:48. Forward to 2:48.
Didn't know he played the French horn!

[musicus]

...he referred to Westminster Cathedral's Carol Services on 20th and 21st Dec. So I thought "carols in Advent, surely not?" The cathedral website refers to "Christmas Celebration" on 20th and 21st - isn't that anticipating the 25th or are they just trying to get the punters into an Advent service: different, I would suggest, to what is advertised? Or are we now able to put on proper carol services in Advent like most (more pragmatic) denominations?

There's a new topic devoted to this question over on Pray Tell, at http://www.praytellblog.com/index.php/2 ... -hope-for/
where the first comment makes a good case for a Christmas-free Advent.