Angels We Have Heard on High is a popular Christmas carol that celebrates the announcement of Jesus’ birth by angels to the shepherds in the fields. The carol’s origins can be traced back to the 18th century, with its lyrics adapted from a French carol called “Les Anges dans nos campagnes.”
The hymn is well-known for its joyful refrain, “Gloria in excelsis Deo,” which means “Glory to God in the highest.” The lyrics emphasize the wonder of the nativity and the joyous message of peace and goodwill. Its lively melody and repetitive structure make it a favorite during the Christmas season, often sung in churches and at holiday gatherings.
The carol captures the essence of the Christmas story, focusing on themes of celebration, divine revelation, and the hope brought by Christ’s birth.
Angels We Have Heard on High -Lyrics
Angels we have heard on high,
sweetly singing o’er the plains,
and the mountains in reply
echoing their joyous strains:
Refrain:
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Shepherds, why this jubilee?
Why your joyous strains prolong?
What the gladsome tidings be
which inspire your heav’nly song? [Refrain]
Come to Bethlehem and see
Him whose birth the angels sing;
come, adore on bended knee
Christ the Lord, the new-born King. [Refrain]
See Him in a manger laid,
Jesus, Lord of heav’n and earth!
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid,
sing with us our Savior’s birth. [Refrain]
