Info
This is based in on a 13th century Latin hymn, “Resonet In Laudibus.” The lyrics were translated by John Mason Neale (1818-1866), and the melody was adapted by Thomas Helmore (1811–1890).
Lyrics
(Melody by Thomas Helmore, Lyrics by John Mason Neale)
1. Christ was born on Christmas day:
Wreathe the holly, twine the bay,
Christus natus hodie*
The Babe, the Son, the Holy One of Mary.
2. He is born to set us free,
He is born our Lord to be,
Ex Maria Virgine**
The God, the Lord, by all adored for ever.
3. Let the bright red berries glow
Ev’rywhere in goodly show:
Christus natus hodie:
The Babe, the Son, the Holy One of Mary.
4. Christians all, rejoice and sing,
‘Tis the birthday of a King,
Ex Maria Virgine:
The God, the Lord, by all adored for ever.
*Christ is born today
**Born of the Virgin Mary.
See also
- Subject: Christmas
- Harmony: chords I & V
- Source: Franklin Square Song Collection: Two Hundred Favorite Songs and Hymns for Schools and Homes, Nursery and Fireside · Issue 3, 1885 / source / source
YouTube
- Song with chords (PDF)
- MIDI file
- Listen to the song
