O Holy Night original linocut Christmas card by Teresa Newham |
Some Christmas Carols remind us of times past, perhaps a favourite from childhood. Others affect us more as we get older. O Holy Night is one of those, for me. I don't remember where exactly I first heard it, but we now sing it often at Christmas with the church choir, and it moves me deeply. It takes me back to all those starlit nights I remember from my youth, looking up into the sky in wonder. That sense of wonder is what I've tried to convey in this year's Christmas card:
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
There's a powerful message which builds throughout the song, so please do click on the lyrics to hear the choir of Kings College Cambridge sing the full version!
Wishing you all peace and joy this Christmas, and a blessed and Happy New Year.