A CHRISTMAS HYMN FOR CHILDREN
Our bells ring out to all the earth,
In excelsis gloria!
But none for Thee made chimes of mirth
On that great morning of Thy birth.
Our coats they lack not silk nor fur,
In excelsis gloria!
Not such Thy Blessed Mother’s were;
Full simple garments covered Her.
Our churches rise up goodly high,
In excelsis gloria!
Low in a stall Thyself did lie,
With hornèd oxen standing by.
Incense we breathe and scent of wine,
In excelsis gloria!
Around Thee rose the breath of kine,
Thy only drink Her breast divine.
We take us to a happy tree,
In excelsis gloria!
The seed was sown that day for Thee
That blossomed but at Calvary.
Teach us to feed Thy poor with meat,
In excelsis gloria!
Who turnest not when we entreat,
Who givest us Thy Bread to eat.
Amen.