Grace and peace, everyone. Here's a Christmas text in 8.7.8.7. that I wrote for John Stainer's melody CROSS OF JESUS. This absolutely lovely tune, which is # 160 in the 1982 Episcopal Hymnal, seems to me of a deep joy and peace, not entirely suited to its original text. (You can see and listen to the original version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPV_neMPDyI )

Since Catholic congregations will know neither the tune nor the text, I would envision this as a piece for choir. I think a solo on verse 3 would be very effective.

1. Savior of the prophets' dreaming,
Infant dear and yet divine,
What unbounded wealth is waiting
In a manger for mankind!

2.Though this wicked world would worship
Gold and power, wit and fame,
God the deepest treasure opens
In a Baby, Christ His Name.

3. Holy Family enchanting,
Virgin Mary, Mother blest
With Saint Joseph wise and faithful
Wonders at the newborn Guest.

4. Son of God, behold Your brethren
Off'ring at Your crib our tears,
All our sins and all our sorrows,
All our faults and all our fears.

5. Sages from the distant nations
Kneel and pray, the Truth to own,
And the shepherds sing sweet blessing
To the Lord and Holy One.

6. Savior of the prophets' dreaming,
Infant dear and yet divine,
What unbounded wealth is waiting
In a manger for mankind!

(c) 2023 Anna Bendiksen