For Christmas
Words: Quem Pastores Laudavere, 13th to 16th century German
Translator: The Rev. John Fulton
Numerous other translations noted in the notes to Quem Pastores Laudavere.
Source: J. H. Hopkins, ed., Great Hymns of the Church Compiled by the Late Right Reverend John Freeman Young (New York: James Pott & Company, 1887), #53, p. 84.
1. While their flocks the shepherds tended
Heavenly hosts to earth descended
Singing, with all voices blended,
"Fear not, Christ is born today."
Eastern Seers rich gifts had wrought Him
Gold, Frankincense, myrrh they brought Him
Guided by a Star, they sought Him
Prince of Life and Victory
2. On that Child with Mary gazing,
Join ye Christians all in raising
Songs to Him, whom Heaven is praising,
God incarnate come to men
From this day's first dawn to even
Praise to Christ our King be given
By all Earth, and all in Heaven,
In our sweetest, loftiest strain.
Sheet Music from J. H. Hopkins, ed., Great Hymns of the Church Compiled by the Late Right Reverend John Freeman Young (New York: James Pott & Company, 1887), #53, p. 84.
"Original Melody of the XIVth Century.
Harmony from Dr. F. Layriz"
