Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
Luke 2:11
Words: J. T. Toof, Chiming Voices, edited by James H. Rosecrans & J. T. Toof (New York: Asa Hull, 1893), page 162.
Music: Burgos Daniel B. Towner, 1893 (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know Toof’s full name, or where to get a good photo of him (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Chime the bells! lift high your voices!
Bring rich gifts, for well you may!
All mankind this day rejoices—
Mary’s Son was born today!
Refrain
Sweep your harps, you host forgiven!
Night gave way to breaking morn;
Swinging gates gave glimpse of Heaven
On that day the Christ was born.
Let our songs abound in gladness,
Let our homes be bright and gay!
Let all hearts forget their sadness—
Christ the Lord was born today!
Refrain
Let our songs in vast assembly,
Worship God for gift so great;
Babe today, but years of manhood
Made His cross our best estate!
Refrain