This is another interesting text from new releases by GIA. David Bjorlin has contrasted the themes of the four Advent candles with the many evils in the world and sings hope despite them.
The setting by Mark Miller is not quite sure what key it wants to be in and maybe that is to the good, because we are meant to be somewhat unsettled by this song – there is no place for complacency when opposed to evil.
The sheet music can be purchased at GIA , where the text is in their preview. I’ll leave GIA there, with the impression that, on the evidence of these songs at least, there is some hope in American church music.
Look how empty the church is in that video, and how the average age of congregants appears to be 70. There is a direct relationship between the silly music and the lack of enthusiasm for worship by young adults. You want to attract young adults to worship? Sing Gregorian Chant. Chant signals that you take worship and faith seriously, that your faith has substance and is a continuation of a venerable Tradition. Singing modern, mediocre ditties that sound like secular tunes signals that your religion isn’t worth investing in. GIA and OCP are hurting the cause of improving Mass because they are publishing music that is unsuitable for use at Mass.
I’m not sure that Gregorian Chant belongs in worship in a United Methodist Church (where the video was taken).