Words: George Ratcliffe Woodward

Music: Tune of Anni novi novitas, from a Mosburg Gradual (1360), harmonized by Charles Wood.

Source: Charles Wood and George Ratcliffe Woodward, The Cambridge Carol-Book, Being Fifty-Two Songs For Christmas, Easter, And Other Seasons (London: Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge, 1924), #29.

1. To redeem a race forlorn,
When the nights were longest,
In the sign of Capricorn,
When the frost is strongest,
Neath the gable
Of a stable,
Early on a morn,
Of a lowly Maiden,
Holy Jesu, Thou wert born.

2. 'Glory be to God on high;
And on earth be granted
Peace, Good-will to men,' hear I
O'er the welkin changed,
Earth rejoices,
hearing voices
Arch-angelick sing
Anthem sweetest
As 'tis meetest,
To the new-born King.

Sheet Music