December 14, 2005

Have faith in God –
Atoning blood was shed;
Have faith in God –
To the cross our Lamb was led;
Have faith in God –
Redeemed by Him who bled.
Have faith, dear friend, in God.

Angels We have Heard on High

Traditional French Carol
English Translation by James Chadwick, 1813-1882

    Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." Luke 2:13-14.

    Although little is known of its origins, this inspiring 18th Century French carol has become a favorite around the world.

Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains.
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heavenly song?
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Come to Bethlehem and see
Christ Whose birth the angels sing;
Come, adore on bended knee,
Christ the Lord, the newborn King.
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

See Him in a manger laid,
Whom the choirs of angels praise;
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid,
While our hearts in love we raise.
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Have Faith in God by H.M.S. Richards, Used by Permission