The New Century Hymnal ‎#129

129. Good Christian Friends, Rejoice

1 Good Christian friends, rejoice
with heart and soul and voice;
now give heed to what we say:
Jesus Christ was born today;
Ox and ass before him bow,
asleep within the manger now.
Christ is born today,
Christ is born today!

2 Good Christian friends, rejoice
with heart and soul and voice;
now you know of endless bliss:
Jesus Christ was born for this!
God has opened heaven's door,
and you are blessed forevermore.
Christ was born for this,
Christ was born for this!

3 Good Christian friends, rejoice
with heart and soul and voice;
now ye need not fear the grave:
Jesus Christ was born to save!
Calls you one and calls you all
to gain his everlasting hall.
Christ was born to save,
Christ was born to save!

Text Information

• First Line: Good Christian friends, rejoice
• Title: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice
• Translator: John Mason Neale (1855, alt.)
• Meter: 6.6.7.7.7.8.5.5.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1995
• Scripture:
  Matthew 2:1-11
• Topic: Christmas; Jesus Christ: Birth and Infancy
• Source: German and Latin, 14th century

Tune Information

• Name: IN DULCI JUBILO
• Harmonizer: John Stainer (1871, adapt.)
• Composer (descant): H. A. Chambers (1931)
• Meter: 6.6.7.7.7.8.5.5.
• Key: F Major
• Source: German melody, 14th century