New hymn: To Bethlehem in Judea
  • CHGiffenCHGiffen
    Posts: 5,148
    After a number of years leaving it on the back burner, I am finally posting my hymn To Bethlehem in Judea which is based on Luke 2:1-20 and is therefore suitable for the Midnight Mass of the Nativity. It was written to fit the hymn tune LOBE DEN HERREN, whose meter is 14 14. 4 7. 8 - and I am attaching six harmonizations of this tune, intended for accompaniment to the six stanzas of the hymn:

    To Bethlehem in Judea come Joseph and Mary.
    Here in a stable the maiden and husband must tarry.
    In deepest night,
    comes forth the world's holy light.
    Glory to God in the highest!

    Born is the baby of Mary and laid in a manger.
    Here among cattle and oxen the child knows no danger.
    Born in this place,
    see in the manger his face!
    Glory to God in the highest!

    In fields the shepherds their flocks by night watches are keeping.
    Lo, comes an angel in glory while all else are sleeping.
    "Fear not, rejoice!
    I bring good news," says the voice.
    Glory to god in the highest!

    "In David's city a Savior new-born waits your greeting.
    His throne, a manger, a sign to you at this first meeting.
    This child so meek
    is the Messiah you seek."
    Glory to God in the highest!

    "Glory to God in the highest," the angel choir singing.
    "And on earth peace to his people," their chant o'er all ringing.
    Your voices raise!
    Join in the heavenly praise:
    Glory to God in the highest!

    Come all to Bethlehem, haste to the new-born creation.
    Enter the stable now, worship in glad adoration.
    Born is the King!
    Christ-child to thee let us sing:
    Glory to God in the highest.

    ~~~ Charles H. Giffen


    Feel free to use the text and/or harmonizations as you see fit.

    May yours be a blessed Christmas.

    Chuck
    Lobe den Herren.pdf
    99K
  • Heath
    Posts: 933
    Chuck, great stuff! Lobe is one of my favorite hymns . . . nice to have another text and some great harmonizations to have as options!
    Thanked by 1CHGiffen
  • CHGiffenCHGiffen
    Posts: 5,148
    Thanks, Heath! You'll note the relatively frequent use of the relative minor in some of the harmonizations, which lends a more "pastoral" character to the tune. Also, in the penultimate line of the last three harmonizations, the use of the dominant of the dominant (G major) adds a sense of joy for the ensuing "Glory to God in the highest!"
  • Adam WoodAdam Wood
    Posts: 6,451
    That text is gorgeous!
    Thank you for sharing.
    Thanked by 1CHGiffen
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