The Narthex
'On Jordan’s Bank': Another Problem Hymn?
Advent classic is misaligned with contemporary political & pastoral sensibilities
By John M. Grondelski | December 9th 2025 12:22 PMFresh off last week’s discovery that "People, Look East" might be coded propaganda for a clandestine versus orientem revival, I approached this Sunday’s liturgy with heightened vigilance. Imagine my dismay when the next hymn announced itself: the venerable "On Jordan’s Bank" -- that paragon of Advent piety which, upon scrutiny,…
READ FULL BLOG POSTRandom Ruminations #29
Conversion Therapy on SCOTUS Docket... Truckers against Trafficking... and more
By John M. Grondelski | October 7th 2025 11:36 AMSarah Mullally’s New Role King Charles III through UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer (or maybe vice versa) has appointed Sarah Mullally to be the next “Archbishop of Canterbury.” Thoughts? Well, in one sense the question is moot. There hasn’t been a real Archbishop of Canterbury for over 400 years. Changes…
READ FULL BLOG POSTAnother Missed Catholic Teaching Moment
The Hamas attack momentarily woke Western man from his moral slumber
By John M. Grondelski | October 30th 2023 2:02 PMMany Americans were rightfully repulsed when they watched students on American college campuses openly declaring their support for Hamas terrorists that killed over 1,400 people and took and still hold hundreds of hostages. It’s ongoing: On October 24, somebody projected pro-Hamas slogans -- including “Glory to Our Martyrs!” -- onto…
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