Southern Nebraska Register
Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House near Waverly will host a 24-hour retreat Dec. 18-19 on Advent and Christmas hymns, inviting attendees to step away from the busyness of the season.
A variety of hymns will be discussed in the retreat conferences. They will focus on some of the oldest Advent hymns and early Latin carols, as well as more modern songs.
Among the older hymns featured are “Creator of the Stars of Night” and “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” while early Latin carols include “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” and “Christ Was Born on Christmas Day.” The retreat will also explore more familiar Christmas hymns, including “O Come, All Ye Faithful” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem.”
All the hymns and carols discussed carry a rich history and can deepen the understanding and appreciation of the Advent and Christmas seasons.
“The theology behind these hymns teaches us about the mystery of the Incarnation and the power of Christ’s birth,” said Father Gary Coulter, retreat director. “By reflecting on these songs, we can better prepare ourselves to celebrate the birth of Christ.”
Father Coulter will lead the meditations on the hymns. The retreat will also include opportunities for Mass, confession and Eucharistic adoration.
This retreat is open to men and women, and is designed to allow attendees time for reflection and silence.
The retreat begins Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. with the Mass and rosary, and concludes on Saturday, Dec. 19 at 6 p.m. with supper.
The retreat house includes 50 individual guest rooms, each featuring a private bath, writing desk, and recliner.
To register for the retreat or learn about other events, call Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House at 402-786-2705 or visit goodcounselretreat.org.
