Classic Christian Hymns · Public-domain text

Angels We Have Heard on High

Traditional French carol; trans. James Chadwick

Traditional English Carols are historic folk-hymns that originated in local villages during the Middle Ages. Originally, 'carols' were celebratory circle dances accompanied by singing, often banned by strict church authorities who preferred formal Latin liturgy. Undeterred, rural communities passed these songs down orally through generations, singing them in fields, streets, and homes to keep the story of Christ's birth alive. Their survival is a beautiful testament to the power of community-driven worship, proving that the most enduring faith songs are those born from the hearts of everyday people.

Source: Public-domain carol translation

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 heavn'ly song?
Come to Bethlehem and see
Him whose birth the angels sing.
Come, adore on bended knee
Christ the Lord, the newborn King.
See him in a manger laid,
Whom the choirs of angels praise.
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid
While our hearts in love we raise.