25 Christmas Hymns to Celebrate the Birth of Jesus Christ

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Whether you're seeking inspiration for your church's Christmas service or simply looking to infuse your home with the spirit of Christmas, this list of Christmas hymns will provide a heartwarming melody to sing along with. Listen to these beloved songs through the Advent season in joyful anticipation of Christ's birth and the fellowship of Christmas. Also, take time to thank God with Christmas prayers and refresh your knowledge of the Christmas Bible story.

"Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you." ~ 2 Corinthians 13:11

We hope you enjoy these wonderful performances of the best Christmas hymns and songs of all time. 

Top 25 Heartwarming Christmas Hymns and Full Lyrics

Christmas hymns are songs of praise and worship to God that are specifically written for the Christmas season. They are typically sung in church services, but they can also be heard in homes, schools, and other public places. Christmas hymns are often based on biblical stories and themes, and they often express the joy, peace, and hope that Christians associate with the birth of Jesus Christ.

While they're often sung in church services, you'll also hear them in homes, schools, and even in shopping malls. Christmas hymns are filled with stories and themes from the Bible, like the angels announcing Jesus's birth, the humble manger scene, and the wise men's journey. When we sing these hymns, we're not just making music; we're expressing our joy, peace, and hope in celebrating the birth of Jesus. So, whether you're at a church service or cozy by the fireplace at home, let the beauty of Christmas hymns fill your heart with the true spirit of the season.

Away in a Manger

"Away in a Manger" is a Christmas carol first written in the late nineteenth century and used broadly throughout the English-speaking world. This hymn centers around the adoration of newborn baby Jesus as he lays in a manger. The lyrics call out for Jesus to "be near me" and "bless all the dear children." 

Away in a manger
No crib for a bed
The little Lord Jesus
Laid down His sweet head

The stars in the bright sky
Looked down where He lay
The little Lord Jesus
Asleep on the hay

The cattle are lowing
The Baby awakes
But little Lord Jesus
No crying He makes

I love You, Lord Jesus
Look down from the sky
And stay by my side
Until morning is nigh

Be near me, Lord Jesus
I ask You to stay
Close by me forever
And love me I pray

Bless all the dear children
In Your tender care
And fit us for heaven
To live with You there

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear

"It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" is a hymn and Christmas carol written by Edmund Sears, pastor of the Unitarian Church in Wayland, Massachusetts. Sears' lyrics are most regularly set to "Noel," modified by Arthur Sullivan from an English melody, or to "Carol," arranged by Richard Storrs Willis. This hymn centers around the theme of angelic singers sharing the message of "Peace on earth, good will to men." Discover the lyrics and story of this renowned hymn at Godtube.com.

It came upon the mid­night clear,
That glo­ri­ous song of old,
From an­gels bend­ing near the earth,
To touch their harps of gold;
Peace on the earth, good will to men,
From Hea­ven’s all gra­cious king.
The world in so­lemn still­ness lay,
To hear the an­gels sing.

Still through the clov­en skies they come
With peace­ful wings un­furled,
And still their hea­ven­ly mu­sic floats
O’er all the wea­ry world;
Above its sad and low­ly plains,
They bend on hov­er­ing wing,
And ev­er ov­er its Ba­bel sounds
The bless­èd an­gels sing.

Yet with the woes of sin and strife
The world has suf­fered long;
Beneath the an­gel strain have rolled
Two thou­sand years of wrong;

And man, at war with man, hears not
The love-song which they bring;
O hush the noise, ye men of strife
And hear the an­gels sing.

And ye, be­neath life’s crush­ing load,
Whose forms are bend­ing low,
Who toil along the climb­ing way
With pain­ful steps and slow,
Look now! for glad and gold­en hours
Come swift­ly on the wing.
O rest be­side the wea­ry road,
And hear the an­gels sing!

For lo! the days are hast­en­ing on,
By pro­phet-bards fore­told,
When with the ev­er circ­ling years
Comes round the age of gold;
When peace shall ov­er all the earth
Its an­cient splen­dors fling,
And the whole world send back the song
Which now the an­gels sing.

The First Noel

"The First Noel," alternatively spelled as "The First Noël," stands as a beloved and timeless English Christmas hymn, its origins dating back to the Middle Ages. The word "Noel" used in the hymn is an intriguing piece of linguistic history. In Early Modern English, "Noel" served as a synonym for "Christmas," shedding light on the linguistic evolution of the holiday's name.

This enchanting carol carries with it a sense of history and tradition, evoking images of candlelit chapels and voices joined in melodic celebration as it continues to enchant generations with its evocative lyrics and beautiful melody. Delve into the layers of history and meaning that make "The First Noel" a cherished part of the Christmas season's musical tapestry, transcending time to connect us with the rich heritage of yuletide festivities.

The first Noel the an­gel did say
Was to cer­tain poor shep­herds
In fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay tend­ing their sheep,
On a cold win­ter’s night that was so deep.

Noel, No­el, No­el, No­el,
Born is the King of Is­ra­el.

They look­èd up and saw a star
Shining in the east, be­yond them far;
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it con­tin­ued both day and night.

And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from coun­try far;
To seek for a king was their in­tent,
And to fol­low the star wher­ev­er it went.

This star drew nigh to the north­west,
Over Beth­le­hem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay,
Right ov­er the place where Je­sus lay.

Then did they know as­sur­ed­ly
Within that house the King did lie;
One en­tered it them for to see,
And found the Babe in po­ver­ty.

Then en­tered in those wise men three,
Full rev­er­ent­ly up­on the knee,
And of­fered there, in His pre­sence,
Their gold and myrrh and frank­in­cense.

Between an ox stall and an ass,
This Child tru­ly there He was;
For want of cloth­ing they did Him lay
All in a man­ger, among the hay.

Then let us all with one ac­cord
Sing prais­es to our heav’n­ly Lord;
That hath made Heav’n and earth of naught,
And with His blood man­kind hath bought.

If we in our time shall do well,
We shall be free from death and hell;
For God hath pre­pared for us all
A rest­ing place in ge­ne­ral.

O Little Town of Bethlehem

This beloved hymn was written by Phillips Brooks in 1868. It is a meditation on the humble beginnings of Jesus Christ, and it is a reminder that God can come to us in the most unexpected places. The lyrics refer to the town of Bethlehem, where Jesus was born of Mary. This hymn describes the setting of Christ's birth and the wondrous gift that would be his life, teachings, and sacrifice.

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight

For Christ is born of Mary
And gathered all above
While mortals sleep, the angels keep
Their watch of wondering love

O morning stars together
Proclaim thy holy birth
And praises sing to God the King
And peace to men on earth

O little town of Bethlehem
How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep
The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth
The everlasting light
The hopes and fears of all the years
Are met in thee tonight

O Come, O Come Emmanuel

"O Come, O Come, Emmanuel" is a Christian hymn for Advent and Christmas written by John Mason Neale. This glorious hymn calls upon various divine bodies to give wisdom, salvation, victory, and safety, among other requests. Listen to a beautiful traditional version of this renowned hymn:

O come, O come, Emmanuel,
And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here,
Until the Son of God appear.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free
Thine own from Satan's tyranny;
From depths of hell Thy people save,
And give them victory o'er the grave.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Dayspring, from on high,
And cheer us by Thy drawing nigh;
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
And death's dark shadows put to flight.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Key of David, come
And open wide our heav'nly home;
Make safe the way that leads on high,
And close the path to misery.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Adonai, Lord of might,
Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai's height,
In ancient times didst give the law
In cloud and majesty and awe.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel.

Joy to the World

The lyrics of the hymn "Joy to the World" are by English writer Isaac Watts, inspired by Psalm 98, 96:11-12 and Genesis 3:17-18. As of the late 20th century, "Joy to the World" was the most-published Christmas hymn in North America. This hymn is a "joyous" celebration of the sovereignty of God and the gift of Jesus. 

Joy to the world the Lord is come
Let earth receive her king
Let every heart prepare Him room
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and nature sing
And heaven and Heaven and nature sing

We will sing, sing, sing
Joy to the world
We will sing, sing, sing

Joy to the world the savior reigns
Let men their songs employ
While fields and floods rocks hills and plains
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat the sounding joy
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy

We will sing, sing, sing
Joy to the world
We will sing, sing, sing

He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love
And wonders of His love
And wonders, wonders of His love

Joy to the world
We will sing, sing, sing

Joyful, joyful we adore Thee
God of glory, Lord of love
And hearts unfold like flowers before Thee
Opening to the sun above

Joyful, joyful we adore Thee
God of glory, Lord of love
And hearts unfold like flowers before Thee
Opening to the sun above

O Come All Ye Faithful

This Latin hymn was written in the 11th or 12th century. It is a call to worship the newborn king, Jesus Christ, and it is a popular choice for Advent and Christmas Eve services.

This popular Christmas Hymn harkens to the biblical story of the birth of Christ. It is considered a reference to the shepherds, after hearing the angels singing, coming to Bethlehem to adore their new-born savior. Today, this hymn signifies and celebrates our coming together in worship to adore the loving blessing of Jesus as He sacrificed himself for our salvation.

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O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant
O come ye, o come ye to Bethlehem
O come and behold Him, born the King of Angels

O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him
Christ the Lord

O come, all ye faithful
O come, all ye faithful
O come, all ye faithful to Bethlehem

O come, all ye faithful
O come, all ye faithful
O come, all ye faithful to Bethlehem

O sing, choirs of angels, sing in exultation
O come, o come ye to Bethlehem
O come and behold Him, born the King of Angels

O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him
O come, let us adore Him
Christ the Lord

Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

There's nothing better than hearing a beautiful hymn right around Christmas time. 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing' is an all-time classic, and it's been performed by numerous different artists over the years from a variety of genres. Today, we're learning more about this powerful Christmas hymn and the story behind its origins. There's truly nothing like singing these words with all your heart to our Father in Heaven above. Amen!

This triumphant hymn was written by Charles Wesley in 1739. It is a celebration of the angel's proclamation of the birth of Jesus Christ, and it is a popular choice for Christmas services.

Hark the herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!
Peace on earth and mercy mild
God and sinners reconciled"
Joyful, all ye nations rise
Join the triumph of the skies
With the angelic host proclaim:
"Christ is born in Bethlehem"
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"

Christ by highest heav'n adored
Christ the everlasting Lord!
Late in time behold Him come
Offspring of a Virgin's womb

Mild He lays His glory by
Born that man no more may die
Born to raise the sons of earth
Born to give them second birth
Hark! The herald angels sing
"Glory to the newborn King!"

In the Bleak Mid-Winter

"In the Bleak Midwinter" is a popular Christmas carol that was written by Christina Rossetti in the 19th century. Its lyrics poetically describe the birth of Jesus and the scene of His nativity. In verse one, Rossetti describes the physical circumstances of the Incarnation in Bethlehem. In verse two, Rossetti contrasts Christ's first and second coming.

Listen to the popular version by Gustav Holst in the video below:

In the bleak midwinter
Frosty wind made moan
Earth stood hard as iron
Water like a stone
Snow had fallen
Snow on snow, snow on snow
In the bleak midwinter, long, long ago

Our God, Heaven cannot hold Him
Nor earth sustain
Heaven and earth shall flee away
When He comes to reign
In the bleak mid-winter
A stable-place sufficed
Lord God Almighty, Jesus Christ

Enough for Him whom cherubim
Worship night and day
A breastful of milk, and a mangerful of hay
Enough for Him whom angels fall down before
The ox and ass and camel
Which adore

Angels and archangels may have gathered there
Cherubim and seraphim thronged the air
But only His mother in her maiden bliss
Worshiped the Beloved
With a kiss

What can I give Him
Poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would give a lamb
If I were a wise man, I would do my part
Yet what I can, I give Him
Give my heart

God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

"God Rest You Merry Gentlemen" is a traditional English Christmas carol. It is also known as "Tidings of Comfort and Joy," the phrase that ends each stanza of the lyrics. This carol is an affirmation of the birth and salvation of Christ, recounting His nativity event and the love of God. Listen to a beautiful performance of this Christmas hymn by the family band The Petersens below!

God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r
When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy

God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r
When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy

In Bethlehem, in Israel
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy

Fear not then, said the Angel
Let nothing you affright
This day is born a Savior
Of a pure Virgin bright
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's pow'r and might
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy

God rest ye merry gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember Christ our Savior
Was born on Christmas Day
To save us all from Satan's pow'r
When we were gone astray
Oh tidings of comfort and joy
Comfort and joy
Oh tidings of comfort and joy

Silent Night

"Silent Night" is a well-known Christmas hymn with lyrics written by Joseph Mohr in 1816. Inspired by the Christmas story of Jesus' birth, Mohr wrote this hymn to celebrate the anticipation of the arrival of the newborn savior. Discover the story of "Silent Night" on Godtube.com. We included another great performance by The Petersens for this famous Christmas hymn. Enjoy!

Silent night, holy night!
All is calm, all is bright.
Round yon Virgin, Mother and Child.
Holy infant so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight.
Glories stream from heaven afar
Heavenly hosts sing Alleluia,
Christ the Saviour is born!
Christ the Saviour is born

Silent night, holy night!
Son of God love’s pure light.
Radiant beams from Thy holy face
With dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus Lord, at Thy birth
Jesus Lord, at Thy birth

O Holy Night

There's truly nothing better than hearing an old-fashioned Christmas song right around the holidays. One of those classic hymns is 'O Holy Night.' It brings up such great memories and thoughts of our Savior, Jesus Christ. It was truly a glorious night when Jesus was born. The angels rejoiced, and the whole world received their King. God granted us eternal salvation when He sent His Son to die for our sins.

O holy night the stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Saviour's birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till He appeared
And the soul felt its worth

The thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
And yonder breaks a new and glorious morn

Fall on your knees
Oh hear the angel voices
O night divine
O night when Christ was born
O night divine
O night O night divine

Truly He taught us to love one another
His law is love and His gospel is peace
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother
And in His name
All oppression shall cease

Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we
Let all within us praise His holy name

Christ is the Lord
Oh praise His name forever
His power and glory
Evermore evermore proclaim
His power and glory
Evermore evermore proclaim

Fall on your knees
Oh hear the angel voices
O night
O night when Christ was born
O night divine
O night O night divine

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" by Bing Crosby (1963)

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" is a carol composed in October 1962, with lyrics by Noël Regney and music by Gloria Shayne Baker. The pair, married at the time, created this carol as an appeal for peace during the Cuban Missile Crisis. This carol's lyrics recall the birth of Jesus and the events surrounding the traditional Christmas story. This beautiful and moving song is a perfect reflection of the peace and tranquility of the Christmas season. Crosby's gentle vocals and the heartwarming lyrics make it a truly special listen.

Do you hear what I hear?

Said the night wind to the little lamb
Do you see what I see?
(Do you see what I see?)
Way up in the sky, little lamb
Do you see what I see?
(Do you see what I see?)
A star, a star, dancing in the night
With a tail as big as a kite
With a tail as big as a kite

Said the little lamb to the shepherd boy
Do you hear what I hear?
(Do you hear what I hear?)
Ringing through the sky, shepherd boy
Do you hear what I hear?
(Do you hear what I hear?)

A song, a song high above the trees
With a voice as big as the sea
With a voice as big as the sea

Said the shepherd boy to the mighty king
Do you know what I know? (Do you know what I know?)
In your palace warm, mighty king
Do you know what I know? (Do you know what I know?)

A Child, a Child shivers in the cold
Let us bring him silver and gold
Let us bring him silver and gold

Said the king to the people everywhere
Listen to what I say! (Listen to what I say!)
Pray for peace, people, everywhere
Listen to what I say! (Listen to what I say!)
The Child, the Child sleeping in the night
He will bring us goodness and light
He will bring us goodness and light

Come Thou Long Expected Jesus

This classic hymn by Charles Wesley is a popular Christmas and Advent song that praises the coming of Jesus Christ. Wesley wrote "Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus" with the intent for people to remember Advent and Christmas as commemorating the Nativity of Jesus and preparing for the Second Coming.

Come, Thou long expected Jesus
Born to set Thy people free;
From our fears and sins release us,
Let us find our rest in Thee.
Israel's strength and consolation,
Hope of all the earth Thou art;
Dear desire of every nation,
Joy of every longing heart.

Born Thy people to deliver,
Born a child and yet a King,
Born to reign in us forever,
Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
By Thine own eternal Spirit
Rule in all our hearts alone;
By Thine all sufficient merit,
Raise us to Thy glorious throne.

By Thine all sufficient merit,
Raise us to Thy glorious throne

Go Tell It On the Mountain

"Go Tell It on the Mountain" is an African-American spiritual song, compiled by John Wesley Work, Jr., dating back to at least 1865, that has been sung and recorded by many gospel and secular performers. It is considered a Christmas hymn carol l because its lyrics celebrate the Nativity of Jesus.

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born

While shepherds kept their watching
O'er silent flocks by night
Behold throughout the heavens
There shone a Holy light

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born

The shepherds feared and trembled
When, lo! Above the Earth
Rang out the angel chorus
That hailed our Savior's birth

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born

Down in a lowly manger
Our humble Christ was born
And brought us all salvation
That blessed Christmas morn

Go, tell it on the mountain
Over the hills and everywhere
Go, tell it on the mountain
That Jesus Christ is born
That Jesus Christ is born

The Little Drummer Boy

"The Little Drummer Boy" is a beloved Christmas carol written by American composer Katherine Kennicott Davis in 1941. First recorded in 1951 by the Trapp Family Singers, it gained immense popularity with the 1958 rendition by the Harry Simeone Chorale. The song tells the story of a poor young boy summoned by the Magi to the Nativity of Jesus. Lacking a gift for the Infant Christ, he plays his drum, earning a smile from the newborn and Mary, who favored his heartfelt offering.

Come, they told me, pa rum pum pum pum
A newborn King to see, pa rum pum pum pum
Our finest gifts we bring, pa rum pum pum pum
To lay before the King, pa rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum.

So to honour Him, pa rum pum pum pum
When we come. Little baby, pa rum pum pum pum
I am a poor boy too, pa rum pum pum pum
I have no gift to bring, pa rum pum pum pum
That’s fit to give a King, pa rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum.
Shall I play for you, pa rum pum pum pum

On my drum? Mary nodded, pa rum pum pum pum
The ox and lamb kept time, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my drum for Him, pa rum pum pum pum
I played my best for Him, pa rum pum pum pum
Rum pum pum pum, rum pum pum pum.

Then He smiled at me, pa rum pum pum pum,
Me and my drum
Me and my drum
Me and my drum
Me and my drum

Coventry Carol

The "Coventry Carol" is an English Christmas carol dating from the 16th century. The song originates from an English Christmas play about the Bible story of Jesus' birth. Find the background story, at Godtube.com.

Lully, lullay, thou little tiny child
Bye bye, lully, lullay

O sisters too, how may we do
For to preserve this day
This poor youngling for whom we do sing
"Bye bye, lully, lullay?"

Herod the king, in his raging
Chargèd he hath this day
His men of might in his own sight
All young children to slay

That woe is me, poor child, for thee
And ever mourn and may
For thy parting neither say nor sing
"Bye bye, lully, lullay."

Lully, lullay, thou little tiny child
Bye bye, lully, lullay

We Three Kings of Orient Are

John Henry Hopkins Jr., then pastor of Christ Episcopal Church in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, crafted "We Three Kings" for a Christmas pageant in New York City. This enduring Christmas carol, with numerous renditions, remains beloved. Hopkins structured the hymn so that three male voices, like the three kings, would each sing a verse, while the first and last verses were sung collectively as "verses of praise." Although originally designed as solos for the Magi, modern renditions typically omit their individual parts, focusing on the admiration of the Star of Bethlehem's majesty.

We three kings of Orient are;
bearing gifts we traverse afar,
field and fountain, moor and mountain,
following yonder star.

O star of wonder, star of light,
star with royal beauty bright,
westward leading, still proceeding,
guide us to thy perfect light.

Born a King on Bethlehem's plain,
gold I bring to crown him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
over us all to reign.

Frankincense to offer have I;
incense owns a Deity nigh;
prayer and praising, voices raising,
worshiping God on high.

Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume
breathes a life of gathering gloom;
sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
sealed in the stone-cold tomb.

Glorious now behold him arise;
King and God and sacrifice:
Alleluia, Alleluia,
sounds through the earth and skies.

Sussex Carol

First composed in 1684, ‘Sussex Carol’ earned its name when Ralph Vaughan Williams set the text to music in the late 1800s after he heard it being sung near Sussex.

On Christmas night all Christians sing,
To hear the news the angels bring,
News of great joy, news of great mirth,
News of our merciful King's birth.

Then why should men on earth be so sad,
Since our redeemer made us glad,
When from our sin he set us free,
All for to gain our liberty.

When sin departs before his grace,
Then life and health come in its place;
Angels and men with joy may sing,
All for to see the new-born King.

All out of darkness we have light,
Which made the angels sing this night:
'Glory to God and peace to men,
Now and for evermore. Amen.'

Angels We Have Heard on High

"Angels We Have Heard on High" is a Christmas carol with lyrics written by James Chadwick to the music of a French song called Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes. While the music is identical to the original hymn, Chadwick's lyrics are unique but obviously heavily inspired and, in parts, a close translation. The hymn's theme is the birth of Jesus Christ, narrated in the Gospel of Luke, particularly the moment in which shepherds outside Bethlehem are visited by an abundance of angels singing and praising the newborn child.

Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o'er the plains
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains

Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly, sweetly through the night
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their brief delight

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
Him whose birth the angels sing,
Come, adore on bended knee,
Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo
Gloria, in excelsis Deo

Yeah
Gloria, in excelsis Deo

Angels we have heard
Angels we have heard on high
Angels we have heard, oh
Angels we have heard on high
Angels we have heard on high
Angels we have heard on high

In excelsis Deo

Candlelight Carol

John Rutter’s music is always popular during the Christmas season, and after hearing the beautiful melodies of the Candlelight Carol, you'll know why.

How do you capture the wind on the water?
How do you count all the stars in the sky?
How can you measure the love of a mother?
Or how can you write down a baby's first cry?

Candlelight, angel light, firelight and star-glow
Shine on his cradle 'til breaking of dawn
Gloria, gloria in excelsis Deo!
Angels are singing "The Christ child is born"

Shepherds and wise men will kneel and adore him
Seraphim 'round him, their vigil will keep
Nations proclaim him their Lord and their saviour
But Mary will hold him and sing him to sleep

Candlelight, angel light, firelight and star-glow
Shine on his cradle 'til breaking of dawn
Gloria, gloria in excelsis Deo!
Angels are singing "The Christ child is born"

Find him in Bethlehem laid in a manger
Christ our redeemer, asleep in the hay
Godhead incarnate and hope of salvation
A child with his mother that first Christmas Day

Candlelight, angel light, firelight and star-glow
Shine on his cradle 'til breaking of dawn
Gloria, gloria in excelsis Deo!
Angels are singing "The Christ child is born"

7 Beloved Christmas Songs

Here are seven of the most popular and beloved Christmas songs of all time:

"White Christmas" by Bing Crosby (1942):

This iconic song captures the magic of a snowy Christmas perfectly. Crosby's smooth vocals and the dreamy melody make it a truly heartwarming listen.

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
Just like the ones I used to know
Where the tree tops glisten
And children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow, oh, the snow

I said, I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmas' be white

I said, I'm dreaming of a white, oh, Christmas
Just like the ones I used to know
Where the tree tops glisten
And the children listen
To hear sleigh bells in the snow

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days, may your days, may your days
Be merry and bright
And may all your Christmas' be white

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas
With every Christmas card I write
May your days be merry and bright
And may all your Christmas' be white

"The Christmas Song" (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire) by Nat King Cole (1946)

This nostalgic tune is a perfect way to wind down and relax during the holidays. The warm, inviting sound of the orchestra and Cole's velvety vocals make it a timeless classic.

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Yuletide carols being sung by a choir
And folks dressed up like Eskimos

Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
Help to make the season bright
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Will find it hard to sleep tonight
They know that Santa's on his way
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
And every mother's child is gonna spy
To see if reindeers really know how to fly

And so I'm offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two
Although it's been said many times, many ways
Merry Christmas to you

And so I'm offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two
Although it's been said many times, many ways
Merry Christmas to you

"It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" by Andy Williams (1963)

This upbeat and cheerful song perfectly captures the excitement and joy of the holiday season. Williams's warm vocals and the festive arrangement make it a true classic.

It's the most wonderful time of the year
With the kids jingle belling
And everyone telling you be of good cheer
It's the most wonderful time of the year

It's the hap-happiest season of all
With those holiday greetings and gay happy meetings
When friends come to call
It's the hap-happiest season of all

There'll be parties for hosting
Marshmallows for toasting
And caroling out in the snow
There'll be scary ghost stories
And tales of the glories of
Christmases long, long ago

It's the most wonderful time of the year
There'll be much mistltoeing
And hearts will be glowing
When loved ones are near
It's the most wonderful time of the year

There'll be parties for hosting
Marshmallows for toasting
And caroling out in the snow
There'll be scary ghost stories
And tales of the glories of
Christmases long, long ago

It's the most wonderful time of the year
There'll be much mistltoeing
And hearts will be glowing
When loved ones are near
It's the most wonderful time
Yes the most wonderful time
Oh the most wonderful time
Of the year

"Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Judy Garland (1944)

This classic ballad is a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas – love, peace, and hope. Garland's heartfelt vocals and poignant lyrics make it a truly special song.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Let your heart be light
Next year all our troubles will be out of sight

Have yourself a merry little Christmas
Make the Yuletide gay
Next year all our troubles will be miles away

Once again, as in olden days
Happy golden days of yore
Faithful friends who are dear to us
Will be near to us once more

Someday soon, we all will be together
If the fates allow
Until then, we'll have to muddle through somehow

So have yourself a merry little Christmas now

"I'll Be Home for Christmas" (1943)

This classic ballad is a poignant reminder of the importance of family and home during the holiday season. Bing Crosby's heartfelt vocals and the touching lyrics make it a truly special listen.

I'm dreaming tonight of a place I love
Even more than I usually do
And although I know it's a long road back
I promise you

I'll be home for Christmas
You can count on me
Please have snow and mistletoe
And presents under the tree

Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams

I'll be home for Christmas (I'll be home for Christmas)
You can count on me (you can count on me)
Please have snow (have snow) and mistletoe (yeah)
And presents under the tree (under the tree)

Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love light gleams
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams
If only in my dreams

In my dreams, my dreams
My dreams

"Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano (1970)

This infectious Latin Christmas song is a favorite among many. Feliciano's playful vocals and the catchy melody make it a fun and festive addition to any holiday playlist.

Feliz Navidad, Feliz Navidad Feliz Navidad,
próspero año y felicidad
Feliz Navidad, Feliz Navidad Feliz Navidad,
próspero año y felicidad

I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas
I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas
I wanna wish you a Merry Christmas
From the bottom of my heart

"Carol of the Bells" (1914)

This traditional carol is a beautiful and festive addition to any holiday playlist. The soaring melody and the intricate harmonies make it a truly special song.

Ding dong ding dong ding
Ding dong ding dong ding
Ding dong ding dong ding

Hark how the bells
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say
Throw cares away

Christmas is here
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold

Ding, dong, ding, dong
That is their song
With joyful ring
All caroling
One seems to hear
Words of good cheer
From ev'rywhere
Filling the air
Ding dong ding dong ding

Oh how they pound
Raising the sound
O'er hill and dale
Telling their tale

Gaily they ring
While people sing
Songs of good cheer
Christmas is here
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas

Hark how the bell
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say
Throw cares away

Christmas is here
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold

Ding, dong, ding, dong
That is their song
With joyful ring
All caroling
One seems to hear
Words of good cheer
From ev'rywhere
Filling the air
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas

On on they send
On without end
Their joyful tone to every home

Ding dong ding dong ding
Ding dong ding dong ding

Christmas is here
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold

Ding dong ding dong ding
That is their song
With joyful ring

Ding dong ding dong ding

These are just a few of the many great Christmas songs out there. With so many choices, you're sure to find the perfect ones to make your holiday season merry and bright.

Find more popular hymns and carols from Godtube with song lyrics and the stories of the authors.

Photo by © Getty Images/Boonyachoat

Christianity.com's editorial staff is a team of writers with a background in the Christian faith and writing experience. We work to create relevant, inspiring content for our audience and update timely articles as necessary.

This article is part of our larger Advent resource library centered around the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. We hope these articles help you understand the meaning and story behind important Christian holidays and dates and encourage you as you take time to reflect on all that God has done for us through his Son, Jesus Christ!

What Is Advent: Definition & Meaning Behind Christmas Tradition
Advent Bible Verses
Advent Readings
Advent Wreath and Candles Meaning and Symbolism
Advent Prayers

Advent Week 1: The Candle of Hope ~ First Sunday of Advent Prayers and Readings
Advent Week 2: The Candle of Peace ~ Second Sunday of Advent Prayers and Readings
Advent Week 3: The Candle of Joy ~ Third Sunday of Advent Prayers and Readings
Advent Week 4: The Candle of Love ~ Fourth Sunday of Advent Prayers and Readings

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