oh little town of bethlehem

how still we see thee lie

above thy deep and dreamless sleep

the silent stars go by

yet in thy dark streets shine

we the everlasting light

the hopes and fears of all the years

are met in thee tonight

for christ is born of mary

and gathered all above

while mortals sleep the angels keep their watch

of wondering love

oh morning stars together

proclaim the holy birth

and praises sing to god the king

and peace to men on earth

how silently how silently

the wondrous gift is given

so god imparts to human hearts

the blessings of his heaven

no ear may hear his coming

but in this world of sin

when their meek souls will receive him

god dear christ enters in

o holy child of bethlehem

descend to us we pray

cast out our sin and enter in

be born in us today

we hear the christmas angels

the great glad tidings tell

oh come to us abide with us

our lord emmanuel