What child is this, who laid to rest,
on Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
while shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing.
Haste, haste to bring him laud
The babe the son of Mary!
Why lies he in such mean estate
where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian fear, for sinners here
the silent Word are pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce him through,
the cross be borne for me, for you;
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
the babe the son of Mary!
So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh;
Come peasant, king to own him
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone him.
Raise, raise the song on high,
the mother sings her lullaby;
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
the babe the son of Mary!
Singers: The Christendom College Choir and Schola Gregoriana
Words: William Chatterton Dix
Music: Traditional