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 POSTWater & Fire in His Hand
Baptism is a turning from sin; Confirmation is a fuller turning toward God
By John M. Grondelski | January 16th 2025 1:14 PMIn a recent Gospel, John the Baptist tells the crowds in the Judean desert: “I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming… He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire” (Lk 3:16-17). Water and fire have been prominent in the past week and…
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