Angels We Have Heard on High

Angels We Have Heard on High

1    Angels we have heard on high,
    sweetly singing o'er the plains,
    and the mountains in reply,
    echoing their joyous strains.

Refrain
    Gloria in excelsis Deo;
    gloria in excelsis Deo.

2    Shepherds, why this jubilee?
    Why your joyous strains prolong?
    What the gladsome tidings be
    which inspire your heav'nly song?  Refrain

3    Come to Bethlehem and see 
    him whose birth the angels sing;
    come, adore on bended knee
    Christ the Lord, the newborn king.  Refrain

Text: French carol; tr. H. F. Hemy, The Crown of Jesus Music, 1864

“Angels We Have Heard On High” is a song that carries good memories for me. It is my favorite Christmas song to play on the piano and I love standing in church and singing it with the whole congregation. It’s a song that spreads joy about the birth of Jesus. 

The Holidays in general are all about celebrations and good vibes, but I think Christmas can pressure people into constantly feeling joyful. It’s easy to get caught up in the superficial parts of Christmas - the presents, the decorations, the shopping - without taking moments to slow down. Singing songs like “Angels We Have Heard On High” is a way for me to take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle. It allows me to feel the pure joy of the angels, mountains, and shepherds alongside a community of people who are also sharing in that joy. 

Dear God, help us remember the importance of slowing down this holiday season, and remind us that joy can be found in the small moments. Amen.