Te Deum

As Christmastide draws to a close, it strikes me that one of the great things about the season is saying the Daily Office with the Te Deum. Of course, this canticle is said at other times, but its beauty and meaning are highlighted for me after its absence during Advent. Regardless of who wrote it and despite any translation issues in some versions, this magnificent creedal hymn brings home the truth of the Incarnation. It also gives me the sense of joining in with 15 or so centuries of the faithful. And although I haven't heard it sung for a while, it still echoes in my head as it was beautifully and prayerfully done by small choirs in the days of yore. It has aided my appreciation of the faith "of the holy Church throughout all the world."