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,…
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