by Phillips Brooks (1835-1893) ~ arr. Dean Jones

Age 9 to 12+, KS2 & KS3 (2m 50s)

May be sung in unison or in SSA 3-part harmony

Download includes: piano-vocal score, lyrics sheet, mp3 demo & backing tracks

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Theme - The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the good news of Christmas

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Content - This much-loved Christmas carol describes the purpose and significance of Bethlehem, at the time of Jesus' birth, with a sense of wonder over the new spiritual life it brings the world. This lovely arrangement from Dean Jones provides a great opening song for a carol concert or Christmas service.

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Lyrics sample

O 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 shineth

The everlasting Light;

The hopes and fears of all the years

Are met in thee tonight.

O morning stars together

Proclaim the holy birth,

And praises sing to God the King

And peace to men on earth...

...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.

O come to us, abide with us

Our Lord Emmanuel.

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This song features in '9 Carols & Readings for Choirs'