Originally a medieval carol performed during the Mystery Plays of Coventry, this English carol depicting the account of the massacre of the Holy Innocents from the Gospel of Matthew has since become a Christmas classic. The hauntingly somber melody and heart-breaking lyrics evoke a spirit of mourning amidst the otherwise jubilant spirit of the Christmas octave. The song recalls the women of Bethlehem bidding farewell to their children who are about to be slaughtered by decree of King Herod.
The Abbot's Circle is a first-of-its-kind virtual monastery—an evolving, curated library that offers an inside look at the artistic, cultural, intellectual, and spiritual work that the Norbertines of St. Michael’s Abbey carry out each day for the praise and honor of God.
Hidden in the stillness of southern California’s desert mountains, St. Michael’s Abbey goes about a timeless and supernatural mission: the common worship of God. This is a place for all to encounter the unfathomable beauty of God and to enter into the mystery of His unrelenting love.
Against a culture in ever desperate need for beauty, St. Michael’s Abbey stands as a refuge for reverent liturgy, inspiring art, and captivating sacred music and chant. Through our work, we are laying the foundation for the sanctification of our society and a renewal in our Church.
