Advent and Christmas is a time of excitement and celebration. However, it is difficult not to see the darkness of the world. Where the treetops glisten and behind the toys and goodies it can be cold and unsafe. And it is in the darkness that we need light. The candle can light our hope and remind us that we are much more than what is the darkest in our lives. Therefore this time of the year can be a time of light over the darkness. I hope the message in this carol can guide us to become carriers of a light that brings joy, hope, courage, peace, grace, and love, now and when the star dims.
Commissioned by Celia Ellingson through LutheranArts in honor of Gary Aamodt's 80th Birthday, and dedicated to and premiered by the St. Olaf Christmas Festival.
DETAILS:
Instrumentation: SATB or SSAA, piano, chamber orchestra or full orchestra