Hark the Herald Angel.......

I  love that so many Christmas movies are on television right now. I cant get enough of them. Last Sunday afternoon, Hubby and I watched the wonderful 'The Bishops Wife' 

Made in 1947, it is the story of an angel called Dudley, played by the charming and debonair Cary Grant who comes down to earth to answer a prayer from a very busy Bishop, played by David Niven. Loretta Young plays the Bishops very lovely..but very neglected wife. Dudley reminds everyone of life's true joys, teaches the true meaning of Christmas, saves them from spiritual doubt...and re affirms what love really is. 

Its an enchanting, heartwarming ..and inspiring movie, with loads of holiday atmosphere with many wonderful moments, including the angelic boys choir practice and the very famous skating scene. But the best scene for me comes at the end of the movie, when the Bishop makes a very touching and heart felt  Christmas Eve sermon. 

"Tonight I want to tell you the story of an empty stocking.

Once upon a midnight clear, there was a child's cry, a blazing star hung over a stable, and wise men came with birthday gifts. We haven't forgotten that night down the centuries. We celebrate it with stars on Christmas trees, with the sound of bells, and with gifts.

But especially with gifts. You give me a book, I give you a tie. Aunt Martha has always wanted an orange squeezer and Uncle Henry can do with a new pipe. For we forget nobody, adult or child. All the stockings are filled, all that is, except one. And we have even forgotten to hang it up. The stocking for the child born in a manger. Its his birthday we're celebrating. Don't let us ever forget that.

Let us ask ourselves what He would wish for most. And then, let each put in his share, loving kindness, warm hearts, and a stretched out hand of tolerance. All the shining gifts that make peace on earth."

It is short...simple...almost seventy years old...not a day out of date and totally relevant to today

During the opening scenes..

one of my favourite Christmas hymns is sung

Although this version is not from the movie..

its still pretty wonderful

Enjoy!

Love and Hugs

Phoebe x