The star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young Child was.
Matthew 2:9
Words: C. Louise Bell, 1897. Appeared in Song-Land Messenger No. 2, edited by Anthony J. Showalter (Dallas, Texas & Dalton, Georgia: Showalter-Lincoln & A. J. Showalter, 1898), number 76, alt.
Music: J. Howard Entwisle (🔊 pdf nwc).
If you know where to get a good photo of Entwisle (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels), or a better one of Bell,
Over the town of Bethlehem
Glittered a wondrous star,
Shining in night’s fair diadem,
Beckoning souls afar;
Magi beheld the marv’lous sight,
Followed the star’s clear beam,
Seeking the Babe who came that night
That He might a world redeem.
Refrain
Hail! Hail! Hail! Hail!
Hail, little town of Bethlehem,
Crowned with a glory naught can dim,
Birthplace of Christ our king;
Hail! Hail! Hail! Hail!
Hail, little town of Bethlehem,
Giving to earth its fairest gem,
Around thee sweet memories cling.
Over the town of Bethlehem
Hovered the angels fair;
Shepherds in wonder gazed on them,
Dazzled by splendor rare;
Heralds of Christ, the infant King,
Chanting, The Lord is born,
Tidings triumphant did they bring,
A message to hearts forlorn.
Refrain
Over the town of Bethlehem
Echoed the heavenly song,
Sparkled a star like a blazing gem,
Hovered an angel throng;
Ages have passed, and yet we hear
Message of joy and love;
Glitters the star with a radiance clear,
It guideth our souls above.
Refrain