Scripture Verse

A great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests. Luke 2:13–14

Introduction

portrait
Eliza E. Hewitt (1851–1920)

Words: Eli­za E. Hew­itt, in Sun­day School Hymns No. 1, ed­it­ed by Is­aac H. Me­re­dith, Grant C. Tul­lar, & Jo­seph W. Ler­man (New York: Tul­lar-Me­re­dith, 1903).

Music: Yu­ma E. G. Snell­ing (🔊 pdf nwc).

If you know Snell­ing’s full name, or where to get a good pho­to of him (head & shoul­ders, at least 200×300 pix­els),

Lyrics

Peaceful the wondrous night,
Peaceful and holy,
Under the silvery light,
Gleaming afar.
Faithfully watching there,
Shepherds so lowly,
Over the hills so fair,
Saw glo­ry’s star.

Refrain

Hail to the starry night,
Sparkling with glo­ry;
Angels on wings of light,
Thronging the sky.
Hail to that starry night!
Wondrous its story:
Jesus the Prince of Light,
Came from above.

Come with that shepherd band,
Come to the manger;
Join in the chorus grand,
Glory to God!
Worship the holy Child,
Wonderful Stranger,
Give to the Undefiled,
Glory and laud.

Refrain

Sweet favor, thus to bow,
Love’s treasure bringing,
Gratefully yielding now,
Life’s joyful praise.
Hear from the heav’nly height,
Glad echoes ringing,
Blessing and power and might,
Through endless days.

Refrain