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.
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.
And praises sing to God the King,
and peace to all on earth.
How silently, how silently, the wondrous
gift is given. So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of his heaven.
No ear may hear his coming,
but in this world of sin,
where meek souls will receive him, still
the dear Christ enters in.