O Joyful Shepherds Make Haste

For Christmas

Words: Italian carol Lieti pastori from “Laude Spirituali,” 1674, translated by K. W. Simpson

Music from the “Laude Spirituali,” 1674

Source: Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #137, pp. 18-19.

1. O joyful shepherds, make haste, with footsteps flying,
There in the manger we hear “Hosannas”crying!

Chorus:
And welcome all are bidden there,
No voice thy right denying.

2. There in the starlight, His gracious Mother by Him,
Earth's fairest Treasure – none other can outvie Him!

Chorus:
Ah see Him, Joyous and serene!
His Maiden Mother nigh Him!

3. And there is Joseph, his joyful heart a-singing!
(Happy O shepherds such joy to hear a-ringing!)

Chorus:
O shepherds leave your lambs to-day,
Your loving homage bringing!

4. Hear o'er the valleys, sweet melodies are stealing!
Star of the heavens His resting-place revealing!

Chorus:
For Manna true is here at last!
Adore Him shepherds, kneeling!

5. Come happy shepherds your fairest lambs to offer!
O do not tarry, your first and best to proffer!

Chorus:
Adoring Him, that for your sake
Came down on earth to suffer!

Sheet Music from Richard Runciman Terry, Two Hundred Folk Carols (London: Burns Oates & Washbourne Limited, 1933), Carol #137, pp. 18-19.

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