In The Bleak Midwinter

The words of the carol occur in three broadsides published in Birmingham in the early nineteenth century. An early mention of the carol’s title occurs in William Hone’s 1823 work Ancient Mysteries Described, which includes [more…]

The last Sunday before advent begins (22.11) is traditionally known as ‘stir up Sunday’. This is when families would come together to make the mixture for their Christmas Pudding, all taking it in turns to [more…]

O come, O come, Emmanuel, And ransom captive Israel, That mourns in lonely exile here, Until the Son of God appear. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel. O come, Thou Rod of [more…]