Behold a branch is growing

of lov'liest form and grace,

as prophets sung, foreknowing;

it springs from Jesse's race

and bears one little flow'r

in midst of coldest winter,

at deepest midnight hour.



Isaiah hath foretold it

in words of promise sure,

and Mary's arms enfold it,

a virgin meek and pure.

Thro' God's eternal will

this child to her is given

at midnight calm and still.

(...)



O savior, child of Mary,

who felt our human woe;

O savior, king of glory

who dost our weakness know,

bring us at length, we pray,

to the bright courts of heaven

and to the endless day.