Singing the Living Tradition ‎#246

246. O Little Town of Bethlehem

1 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.

2 For Christ is born of Mary,
and gathered all above,
while mortals sleep, the angels keep
their watch of wondering love.
O morning stars, together
proclaim the holy birth.
Let praises ring: from God they bring
goodwill to all on earth.

3 How silently, how silently
the wonder is made known,
when God imparts to human hearts
the gift that is our own.
No ear may hear that coming,
but in this worldly din,
when souls are truly humble,
then the dear babe rests within.

Text Information

• First Line: O little town of Bethlehem
• Title: O Little Town of Bethlehem
• Author: Phillips Brooks, 1835-1892
• Meter: C.M.D.
• Language: English
• Publication Date: 1993
• Topic: Jewish and Christian Teachings: Christmas
• Notes: Another tune 247

Tune Information

• Name: ST. LOUIS
• Composer: Lewis H. Redner, 1831-1908
• Meter: C.M.D.
• Key: F Major or modal