Biography:
Talbot was born into a Methodist family with a musical background in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and started learning to play the guitar at an early age. At age 15 he dropped out of school and was performing as a guitarist for Mason Proffit, a country folk-rock band formed with his older brother Terry.
Talbot embarked on a spiritual journey that led him through Native American religion and Buddhism to Christianity. At this point he and his brother, Terry, joined the Jesus Movement, recording the album Reborn which was re-released by Sparrow Records (originally released as The Talbot Brothers on the Warner Brothers label).
Two solo albums followed for Talbot: John Michael Talbot (1976) and The New Earth (1977). Both of these were produced by Billy Ray Hearn.
Reading the life of Saint Francis of Assisi, he was inspired to begin studying at a Franciscan center in Indianapolis. He became a Roman Catholic and joined the Secular Franciscan Order in 1978. He started a house of prayer, The Little Portion.
Talbot moved The Little Portion to Eureka Springs, Arkansas on land he had purchased during his Mason Proffit days. He founded his own community, the Brothers and Sisters of Charity, at Little Portion Hermitage as an "integrated monastic community" with celibate brothers and sisters, singles, and families. By 1989, Talbot had married Viola Pratka (with the permission of the Catholic Church). Pratka was a former Incarnate Word Sister who had come to the community in 1986.
Per the community's General Constitutions, Talbot's title is "General Minister and Spiritual Father". For many years, he has promoted the work of Mercy Corps.
The hermitage suffered a fire in April 2008 in which the chapel, library and many common areas were destroyed.
On April 10, 2010 the Bishop of Little Rock, Anthony Taylor, dedicated the new buildings. On October 2, 2010 the Brothers and Sisters of Charity at Little Portion Hermitage celebrated the opening of the new monastery church and common center.
Kyrie
John Michael Talbot Lyrics
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Kyrie, eleison
Lord, Lord, have mercy
Christe, eleison
Christe, eleison
Christ, Christ, have mercy
Christ, Christ, have mercy
Kyrie, eleison
Kyrie, eleison
The lyrics of Kyrie by John Michael Talbot are a plea for help and mercy from the divine. The use of the Greek words Kyrie (Lord) and Christe (Christ) is deliberate, as it adds an element of reverence and authenticity to the song, invoking the ancient traditions of faith. The first verse and chorus, consisting of the repetition of "Kyrie, eleison" (Lord, have mercy), are a humble plea for forgiveness and grace. The second verse and chorus add "Christe, eleison" (Christ, have mercy), emphasizing that the request for mercy is directed towards Jesus Christ, the savior of humanity.
The song's haunting melody and repetitive lyrics create a meditative mood, allowing listeners to focus on the words and their meaning. The harmonious vocals and simple instrumentation, consisting mainly of acoustic guitar and keyboard, add to the sincerity and reverence of the piece. The song is a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of seeking help and guidance from a higher power in moments of need.
Line by Line Meaning
Kyrie, eleison
Lord, have mercy on us
Kyrie, eleison
Lord, have mercy on us
Christe, eleison
Christ, have mercy on us
Christe, eleison
Christ, have mercy on us
Kyrie, eleison
Lord, have mercy on us
Kyrie, eleison
Lord, have mercy on us
Contributed by Claire O. Suggest a correction in the comments below.