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HOLIDAY SONG: Angels we have heard on high

With lyrics based on the French song “Les Anges Dans Nos Campagnes,” “Angels We Have Heard on High” is a beloved and instantly recognizable Christmas carol.
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The origin of the original song remains unknown, though the English translation, which is considered a derivative work since the lyrics are not a direct translation, is credited to 19th century Roman Catholic priest James Chadwick.

“Angels We Have Heard on High”

Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o’er the plains
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains

Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
Which inspire your heavenly song?

Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Come to Bethlehem and see
Him Whose birth the angels sing;
Come, adore on bended knee,
Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

See Him in a manger laid
Jesus Lord of heaven and earth;
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid,
With us sing our Savior’s birth.

Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Author unknown
Lyrics courtesy of Lyricsforchristmas.com

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