What is new upon the earth

1 What is new upon the earth?
What fresh wonder goeth forth,
That its ways are full of pilgrims,
And its dwellings full of mirth.

2 Sounds of gladness on the air!
Happy faces ev'rywhere!
Tell us, O ye silent virgins,
Wherefore is the night so fair?

3 "Lo, the sacred hour is near!
What was darkness now is clear:
Christ is coming! raise your voices,
Say farewell to doubt and fear."

4 "Lo, the Prince of Peace is born!
Lo, on high the star of morn!
And it shall not fade forever,
Nor its brilliancy be shorn."

Source: Wartburg Hymnal: for church, school and home #96