written: December 15, 1989, inside the classroom
The Seminary Christmas Carolling
Soldiers of God in St. Augustine’s care Gathered in joy, with laughter in the air Clothed in white, so radiant and bright A passersby went amazed at the sight Said, "they saw angels walking in light" Warmth greeted us at each humble door Feasts were prepared, in plates did pour Our hunger met with kindness and grace Blessing received there, and every place Fingers danced on strings, songs so fine As carols rose in wondrous notes divine The lullabies of Christmas filled the street Echoing the rhythm, so tender and sweet In the stillness of night, so soft and deep Stirring the homes, where they still sleep Windows saw faces aglow, murmurs rose The spirit of Christmas made them froze Let peace and joy, to one and all be told A Child is born, as the prophets foretold Let's bring gifts with meaning and worth Frankincense, myrrh, gold, of the world Why aren't you rejoicing, why in dismay? Come, share the hope of Christmas Day Join us now, in celestial songs of praise To lift the hearts of many, in joyful ways Let our voices rise, let kindness increase Augustinian Carolers, now sing of peaceThis poem was quietly written during a drowsy noon in the classroom on December 15, 1989, just days before Christmas. Sleep-deprived and lulled by the professor’s dull tone, I found myself drifting off, pen in hand, as inspiration quietly crept in.
At the time, I was a seminarian. Few days before Christmas day, our nights were spent caroling from house to house, traveling as far south as Alabang and as far north as Pampanga. From evening until the early hours of dawn, we sang at the homes of wealthy families, seminary friends, and generous sponsors.
One of the most exciting parts of those nights was the generous take home aside from the luscious foods offered in every home, that we often returned to the seminary with full hearts and with even fuller stomachs.