Let’s face it, Advent can be a frantic dash to the finish line, a blur of last-minute shopping and strained festive cheer. But BBC One’s Songs of Praise offers a moment of respite, turning its attention to the celestial with its “Angels” episode, airing Sunday, December 8. For those seeking a dose of spiritual solace amidst the holiday chaos, this might be just the ticket.
This installment aims to explore the role of angels in the Christmas story and beyond, with a mix of personal stories, community outreach, and, of course, plenty of hymns. Author Hope Price will share accounts of supposed modern-day angel encounters. Rev. Ravi Holy will recount his own experiences with what he believes to be angelic intervention, and how these alleged encounters influenced his life, especially his journey to sobriety.
Adding a touch of homespun charm, the episode will visit High Street Methodist Church in Harpenden, where a group diligently crafts knitted angels. Deacon Sarah Wickett will explain the initiative, which distributes the angels as symbols of peace, love, and—let’s be real—probably a small dose of yarn-related whimsy. Rev. Kate Bottley, a Songs of Praise regular, heads to Fairford in the Cotswolds, specifically St Mary’s Church, a location known for its stunning depictions of angels, to examine their significance within the Christmas narrative.
Naturally, a Songs of Praise Christmas special wouldn’t be complete without a festive soundtrack. The episode features performances of classic carols and hymns, including “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear,” “O Holy Night,” “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing,” and other holiday staples, from locations including St Pol de Leon in Penzance, St George’s Church in Jesmond, The Steeple Church in Dundee, St Matthew’s Church in Croydon, and, naturally, the grandeur of Westminster Abbey.
Songs of Praise “Angels” airs Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 1:25 PM on BBC One.
