Mary; mother of Jesus, wife of Joseph, child bride, teen mother, fierce protector, justice seeker, faithful servant. The story of Mary is far more than meets the eye. Each Advent season, Christian communities return to Mary’s song, often called the “Magnificat” because of the first word in its Latin translation: Magníficat anima mea Dominum (“My soul magnifies the Lord”). It’s a kind of chorus for the church, an annual refrain: an angel visits an ordinary young woman, gives her good news of great joy – and she lifts her voice to sing.

Advent means “coming” or “arrival.” It’s a season of anticipation, of actively waiting and preparing for Jesus to arrive, and to usher in a new world. In Bethlehem, yes, and also everywhere else, too, including our homes, our lives, our neighborhoods. Mary’s song, then, is about that day long ago; and it’s also about all of us, yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

This Advent I invite you to join us as we follow Mary on her incredible journey of hope and faith.