Angels, from the Realms of Glory

Christmas Carol Lyrics

Angels, from the realms of glory,
Wing your flight o'er all the earth;
Ye, who sang creation's story,
Now proclaim Messiah's birth:

[Refrain option 1]
Come and worship,
Come and worship,
Worship Christ, the new-born King.

[Refrain option 2]
Gloria in excelsis deo,
Gloria in excelsis deo.

Shepherds in the field abiding,
Watching o'er your flocks by night,
God with man is now residing;
Yonder shines the infant Light: Refrain

Sages, leave your contemplations,
Brighter visions beam afar:
Seek the great Desire of nations;
Ye have seen His natal star: Refrain

Saints before the altar bending,
Watching long in hope and fear,
Suddenly the Lord, descending,
In His temple shall appear: Refrain

Though an infant now we view Him,
He shall fill His Father's throne.
Gather all the nations to him,
Every knee shall then bow down: Refrain

(Optional additional verse)

All creation, join in praising,
God the Father, Spirit, Son.
Evermore your voices raising,
To th'eternal Three in One: Refrain

About This Carol

Angels, from the Realms of Glory is a grand and uplifting Christmas hymn first published in 1816. It was written by Scottish poet and journalist James Montgomery, a man known for both his social conscience and his lyrical gifts. Montgomery penned the text during a period of spiritual reflection, and it first appeared as a poem in a Sheffield newspaper before finding its place in church hymnals.

The hymn calls on different groups to come and worship the newborn Christ. Angels, shepherds, sages, and all believers are invited to lift their voices together. This sweeping approach gives the carol a broad, inclusive feel that aligns beautifully with the theme of joy spreading across the world at Christmas.

The tune most commonly used in the United States is Regent Square, composed by Henry Thomas Smart in the late 19th century. In the United Kingdom, the carol is often sung to the melody Iris, adapted from a French carol known as Les Anges dans nos campagnes. Either way, the pairing of Montgomery's stirring words with a bright, confident melody results in a hymn that feels both celebratory and steadfast.

Over the years, Angels, from the Realms of Glory has become a favorite for church services, choral performances, and carol sings. Its call to worship and its message of hope make it a powerful part of the Christmas season.

Rousing Performance Video from The Piano Guys

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