Hymns for the Living Church ‎#108

108. The First Noel, the Angel Did Say

1 The first Noel, the angel did say,
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay;
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter's night that was so deep.

Refrain:
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.

2 They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the east beyond them far,
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night. (Refrain)

3 And by the light of that same star
Three wise came from country far;
To seek for a king was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went. (Refrain)

4 This star drew nigh to the northwest,
O'er Bethlehem it took its rest;
And there it did both stop and stay,
Right over the place where Jesus lay. (Refrain)

5 Then entered in those wise men three,
Full rev'rently upon their knee,
And offered there in His presence
Their gold, and myrrh, and frankincense. (Refrain)

6 Then let us all with one accord
Sing praises to our heav'nly Lord;
That hath made heav'n and earth of naught,
And with His blood mankind hath bought. (Refrain)

Text Information

• First Line: The first Noel, the angel did say
• Title: The First Noel, the Angel Did Say
• Refrain First Line: Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel
• Meter: Irreg. Ref.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1974
• Scripture:
  Matthew 2:1-12
  ;
  Luke 2:8
• Topic: Christ: Birth
• Source: Traditional English carol

Tune Information

• Name: THE FIRST NOEL
• Arranger: John Stainer (1871)
• Meter: Irreg. Ref.
• Key: D Major
• Source: W. Sandys' Christmas Carols, 1833