I love singing the songs of Christmas—especially the old sacred carols. “O Come All Ye Faithful” is one of my favorites. It was originally written in Latin –Adeste, Fideles—which literally means: be present or near, ye faithful.

For many years the carol’s history was unknown.   But recent research indicates that the words and music were probably written by John Wade, an Englishman. The hymn first appeared in a collection of his in 1751.

The original had four verses. I particularly love the last two

Sing choirs of angels, sing in exultation, sing all ye citizens of heaven above.

Glory to God, glory in the highest

O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.

Yea, Lord we praise thee, born this happy morning ,  Jesus to thee be all glory given.

Son of the Father, now in flesh appearing.

O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, O come let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.