~ 1946 Version



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 gather all above

while mortals sleep the angels keep

their watch of wond'ring love!

O, morning stars together

proclaim the holy birth!

And praises sing to God our King

and peace to men on earth!



O, Holy Child of Bethlehem

descend to us we pray

cast out our sin, and enter in, be

born in us today!

We hear the Christmas Angels,

the great glad tidings tell

O, come to us, abide with us,

Our Lord Emanuel!